Read 

Matthew 26:39, “My Father, if there is any way, get me out of this. But please, not what I want. You, what do you want?” 

Psalm 73:26, “My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; He is mine forever.” 

Think 

Vulnerability tends to have a bad reputation. It can be perceived as a weakness. However, when God is involved, what we might consider weakness is what gives us strength. Being vulnerable with God draws us closer to Him, and His mighty power strengthens us. 

In today’s reading, Jesus — the ultimate strong man — expressed utter vulnerability. Fully aware of His impending gruesome death on the cross and — even more excruciating — total separation from the Father, He prayed. Because although He was fully God, He was also fully man. No human could face what He faced (even knowing the end result) without first crying out for relief. We’ll never truly grasp what Jesus experienced, but we can follow His example and pour our anguished hearts out to God in prayer. 

God knows our secrets. He knows what we’re struggling with and what’s ahead. He wants to listen, to share such intimate moments with us. As we cling to His strength and comply with His will, He ushers in healing, comfort, and guidance that only He can bring into our lives. When we are weak, He is strong! 

Regardless of how long it’s been since you last talked with God, He’s still just a prayer away! Be vulnerable, pour out your heart in His presence, and listen for His voice — He will give you just what you need.  

Act 

Tell God what’s on your heart today, then quiet your mind and be still as you listen for His voice. 

Pray 

Dear Lord, I know you know my secrets, struggles, and pain. Today, I open my heart to You and lay bare my innermost thoughts. For it’s there that I know I’ll find the healing and comfort I seek. In Jesus’ name, Amen.