That’s good news for anyone who thinks prayer has to be polite. Job argued with God for chapters. Jeremiah accused God of deceiving him. Jesus himself prayed Psalm 22 on the cross. Honest prayer doesn’t mean you’ve lost faith. Often it’s what faith looks like when things are hard: you’re still talking to God, even if you’re yelling.
Historical Context
An Honest Prayer
God, I’m going to be honest with you.
You know it anyway.
I don’t understand what you’re doing.
I’m tired, and some days I’m angry with you.
I’ve been praying and nothing seems to change.
But I’m still here, still talking to you.
That has to count for something.
Don’t let go of me.
Amen.
When You’re Doubting
Lord, I’m not sure what I believe right now.
I believe; help my unbelief.
Amen.
When You’re Angry with God
Lord, I’m angry, and it’s at you.
I’m bringing it to you instead of walking away.
You can handle it.
Amen.
An Honest Confession
Lord, I’m not who I pretend to be.
You know the real me. Forgive me, and help me change.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- When polite prayers feel fake.
- In grief, depression or a crisis of faith.
- When you’ve been angry with God and avoiding prayer because of it.
Scripture Connection
“How long wilt thou forget me, O LORD? for ever? how long wilt thou hide thy face from me?… But I have trusted in thy mercy; my heart shall rejoice in thy salvation.” — Psalm 13:1, 5
Psalm 13 starts with “how long?” and ends with trust. It doesn’t skip the hard part to get to the good part. It goes through it.
Related prayers
For more, see the Habakkuk Prayer and the Heartfelt Prayer. For being truthful with others, the Prayer for Honesty.