I get asked over and over again whether a lament is okay. Of course, not many use that word, but they're asking if it's okay to bring to God their "complaints." It's often along the lines of, am I allowed to mention to God in my prayers that I feel abandoned? Or that things in life don't seem to line up with His promises?
Not only is it okay. It's essential. If you don't share your laments, your heart will fall into the pit of cynicism.
My friend Jon Hori, who is now the Regional Director for the West Coast and East Asia for seeJesus, tackled this issue in a message at Seeds of Life Church (click the link to listen). One of my favorite bits (spoiler alert): "If your heart is hurt, God wants your hurt heart. If your heart is angry, God wants your angry heart. God wants the real you coming before Him in all of your hurt, your disappointments, your frustration, your impatience."
I know we're all busy, but I also know this message will be an encouragement to you. (My daughter likes to listen to sermons and podcasts while on the treadmill!)
Walking with you,
Bob Allums
Director of seeJesus Seminars: A Praying Life
P.S. See what seminars we have coming up, or take a look at all of the other discipleship resources at www.seejesus.net!
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