Where does Jeremiah get the moxie to say this to God: “O Lord, Thou hast deceived me and I was deceived; Thou hast overcome me and prevailed. I have become a laughingstock all day long; everyone mocks me.” (Jeremiah 20:7) Wow! Within some Christian circles I’ve traveled those words would be considered treasonous.

For me those words afford an allowance for honesty that I appreciate very much. If a great prophet like Jeremiah could rail before God in his deep distress, can’t I? He let it all hang out when he spoke to his Lord. Because of it I can take permission to do the same. You may want to give yourself permission also.

There are those who feel we must only speak in faith put a positive spin on every word we utter. We often call this keeping a “positive confession.” It is true that words are powerful and it is wisdom to guard our mouths. Yet Jeremiah accused God of deceiving him and I don’t believe God swatted him for it or that Jeremiah lacked faith.

God made room for Jeremiah when he got real and I believe he will make room for us too. He knows all we are thinking and feeling whether we say it out loud or not. He is a big God, not shocked by our tirades.

Later in the same passage Jeremiah says; “Sing to the Lord, praise the Lord! For He has delivered the soul of the needy one from the hand of evildoers.” (Verse 13) Be real with God — he can take it. And when you are finished with your rant go ahead and praise him. That’s real too!