Chapter five of Jeremiah opens with a challenge from the Lord. The challenge was to find one honest and truthful person in the entire city of Jerusalem, the capital city and center of worship for Judah. God was willing to forgive and spare the city if this person could be found. “Go up and down the streets of Jerusalem, look around and consider, search through her squares. If you can find but one person who deals honestly and seeks the truth, I will forgive this city. (Verse 1)

Each time I read this chapter, I thought, “I want to be the one.” I want to live my life so that if God challenges someone to search for an honest and authentic person, my life could be a testimony to our city and community. Then I also questioned if I was faithful to represent Christ to the many I interact with daily.

In my questioning, I learned a hard truth, I had fallen victim yet again to ‘the good Christian image.” I was telling God, myself, and others all the right words because that is what scripture teaches and what I should believe and say. Yet, my vulnerable truth was different. God is always good, but I didn’t always feel or believe that truth. But rather than going to God with my reality, I began to beat myself for doubting. Verse two says Although they say, ‘As surely as the Lord lives,’ still they are swearing falsely.” God desires and accepts nothing but the truth, not half-truths or our perception of reality.

Nothing closes the door to God’s acceptance, like hypocrisy, lying, or pretense, when we pray, sing, speak, or serve. God sees through us, and he refuses to listen to our lies. However, in his love and compassion, when we are vulnerable enough, to be honest with Him, He meets us where we are. One of the most valuable lessons this year is that no matter how negatively I view my thoughts or feelings, I can bring all of me to God. In doing so, I receive his correction and closeness, which refines my character, making me honest and truthful. 

Are you vulnerable to God? What does the testimony of your life say to your community?