Words sometimes tell the entire story, but more often than not they are simply articulated soldiers guarding the thoughts that edge out onto our tongues like renegade warriors. We hold back and say nothing at times when what is needed most is a voice to the thoughts that build in our mind.

How many times have I wanted just to blurt out, “I love you,” “I forgive you,” “I was wrong,” “I really need to tell you something…?”

I am not referring to general folks and common talk where niceties are the social norm and are not only polite, but expected. I am referring to the folks who make up the intimate world inside our heart and mind. When we avoid what needs to be said we become creative distracters of our own reality. We also become guarded and trust less because we question our own thoughts...a children’s game of Memory where the words we turn over don’t match the picture of our true feelings.  No one wins, and it becomes a tireless game of doubt.

Maybe it is your teenager who desperately needs to hear you say, “I love you,” even when you hear the bedroom door slam for the fiftieth time. Maybe it is your co-worker who needs to know despite the problems, you recognize the effort being put forth. Maybe it is you needing to dare to say you were wrong to someone who is hurting because of your actions. And just maybe it is God who needs to hear your thoughts put into voice.

In truth, He knows your entire story already. But when we purposefully direct our thoughts to Him we allow His warriors, His angels, and His army to step in on the frontline and become our life filter.

We are all rough drafts, and we edit our chapters before we allow others to read into our lives. Life marks us up; we get red-lined by insecurities, guilt, and fear. We put a cover on our tattered story and show the world we have it together.

We all do this, and there is no shame in not bearing it all to the world. But in our soulful nakedness God’s army builds us up and gives us training, allowing our spiritual muscles to burn. And when our thoughts creep onto the most powerful muscle in our body, the tongue, we know we can step out on faith and speak truthful words which have been waiting to be spoken through His filters. The tough words, the hidden words, the forgiving words, the healing words, the loving words, the joyful words, the tearful words, the laughing words…the authentic words which make up our genuine story…the story of His amazing grace living in each one of us.

What is it that you have needed to say to that someone in your life?

Ask God to replace your hesitation with His mercy and courage. And when you feel your thoughts bubbling up and you are about to speak, ask God for His guidance to be real, be yourself, and keep moving forward in His love.

Fear-shackled words prevent us from moving beyond ourselves and into the greatest love story ever told…His love for us. Allow Christ to cover your sins and showcase your story. Be authentic in and with Christ, and He will give you discernment and courage to speak truthfully with others.

“And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.” (Deuteronomy 31:8)