True Feelings

"Laughter can conceal a heavy heart, but when the laughter ends, the grief remains." Proverbs 14:13 NLT

Thoughts for Today

Most of us have some degree of trouble admitting our true feelings and being able to express them, especially if we are struggling with life-controlling problems. But throughout the Bible, God encourages us to know our feelings and not keep them hidden inside. Jesus set an example for us: He had emotions and he expressed them. He cried. He got angry. He was sad.

We often hide the way we feel behind a defense to keep our real self from showing through. Inside we may feel fearful or angry or sad, but we hide those feelings by joking … or acting superior … or being silent … or using some other defense. We may try to cover our sadness with laughter, but when the laughter ends, the grief remains.

Hiding our feelings can give them control over our lives. Unexpressed anger or fear or guilt can have a destructive influence on everything we do. Hidden shame and sadness are roadblocks to hope and healing.

Consider this…

If you have been hiding your true feelings, has your "cover-up" helped? Or have you learned firsthand that when the laughter ends, the grief remains? Admitting your feelings can be a turning point. Be honest with yourself. And with God. And then with a friend. Being real will open the door for healing.

Prayer

Lord, I have been hiding my feelings for a long time, but I know now it is time to be honest. Help me to be real. Help me to share my real feelings with my loved one. Set me free. In Jesus' name …


From: CrossWalk Devotionals