Pretending

pretending - I’m tired of pretending I have it all together. How can I bring authenticity to my relationships?

We have depended on God’s grace, not on our own human wisdom.

2 Corinthians 1:12

Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the LORD.

Psalm 119:1

Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.

1 Peter 5:7

ALL OF US have that closet or bedroom where we shove our mess when others come over. It is human nature to try to cover up the mess in our lives. As women, we often believe that if we portray a picture-perfect image, others will see us as successful and self-sufficient. Yet if we are truly honest, we have to admit that none of us really have it all together. Some of us struggle with anxiety or depression. Others have fragile marriages or are drowning in debt. It is humbling to realize we are just pretending to be okay. It is even more humbling to admit that we need help, yet this is the first step in bringing authenticity to our lives with God and others. Being vulnerable is to allow another person into the messiness of our lives. Wouldn’t it feel refreshing if we all admitted we are struggling? If you find it difficult to be honest with others about your hardships, start by being honest with God. You don’t need to have it all together before you pray because God already knows you. Allow God to sit with you in your mess in order to experience his help and his grace.

Prayer Prompts

Lord, if I am really honest, I need help with . . .

Your Word encourages me toward a life of authenticity when it says . . .