Hope From Ashes

Read: Psalm 32; Exodus 32:7-14; Luke 15:1-10

The Hardest Truth to Speak: Being Honest with Ourselves

Being completely honest with ourselves is one of life’s greatest challenges. It’s so easy to notice the flaws in others, yet when it comes to our own shortcomings, we often look the other way. Why do we do this? Perhaps because self-awareness can be uncomfortable. Admitting our weaknesses, acknowledging our mistakes, and recognizing areas in need of growth takes humility and courage—things that don’t always come naturally. But as difficult as it may be, embracing the truth about ourselves is essential for real change.

This struggle between self-deception and self-awareness is nothing new. In Psalm 32, David describes the burden of unconfessed sin, likening it to a heavy weight that drained his strength. But when he finally turned to God and acknowledged his faults, he found something unexpected: not shame or condemnation, but relief, forgiveness, and peace. His story reminds us of a simple yet profound truth—freedom begins with honesty. The moment we stop running from our shortcomings and instead bring them before God, we open ourselves up to healing and transformation.

David also offers a beautiful image of God’s grace and protection: “You are my secret hideout! You protect me from trouble. You surround me with songs of rescue!” This verse reminds us that we don’t have to be afraid of facing the truth. While our instinct may be to avoid or deny our faults, true peace isn’t found in pretending we have it all together. It’s found in bringing our struggles before God and allowing Him to work in us. Though self-reflection isn’t always easy, it leads to renewal, growth, and a deeper sense of purpose.

One way I’ve learned to speak truth to myself is through journaling. Writing down my thoughts, struggles, and prayers helps me process emotions, recognize patterns in my behavior, and see where I need to grow. It’s a space where I can be completely honest—without fear of judgment. Over time, looking back on past entries reminds me of how far I’ve come, how God has worked in my life, and how His grace has been with me every step of the way. Journaling has become a quiet refuge, a place where I meet God in the midst of my imperfections and find encouragement to keep going.

The season of Lent is a perfect time to slow down and reflect—to open our hearts to correction, embrace humility, and lean into the grace that allows us to grow. Being honest with ourselves isn’t always easy, but it is one of the most freeing things we can do. The hardest truth to speak may be the one we tell ourselves, but by grace, it is also the truth that leads to healing, renewal, and a deeper relationship with God.

Prayer:

One who is true and good, grant us grace to know that even with our shortcomings, you are our hiding place, so that we might be honest with you, ourselves, one another, and the world, through Christ who redeems our brokenness and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen.