It is not always important for everyone to know everything you're thinking. However, it is important for us to know God always knows what we are thinking and feeling. And sometimes it is beneficial to both us and others to share in the right setting and with the right people our thoughts and feelings. Christians experience real pain, hurt, illness, confusion and discouragement. But with who and how we share these can make a world of difference. Bottling them up inside is just as harmful to us. So, what do we do with these real thoughts and feelings? 1) Take them directly to the Lord. He is not afraid of your thoughts, feelings or questions and he is available 24/7. 2) Be open and honest with a trusted (mature) Christian who can pray with and for you. 3) Share with your church family. God meant for the church to be a safe place for the hurting and a strengthening place for the weak. What you'll find is others there are thinking, feeling and struggling with some of the same things as you.

Dr. William Burnham is a pastor at Point of Grace Church in Covington. He can be reached at burnhamw@charter.net.