Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“Draw near to the Lord, for he has heard your complaining.”
NL Daily Devotion for Thursday, August 20, 2026
by R. M. Fergus, Clergy Stuff
I’ve been pretty ticked off at God more than a few times in my life. I remember telling this to a therapist at one point and she said, “Just yell at God. God can handle it.” So I did.
I think of that every time my life isn’t cooperating with my own designs, and you bet I complain—usually in writing (people would stare if I just yelled heaven-ward at random moments). I let God have it with all I’ve got: “Haven’t I been faithful? Haven’t I been disciplined? Aren’t I doing what I’m supposed to be doing? What do you WANT from me?!?”
God always hears my complaining. I know they do. Because sooner or later, the solution to whatever challenge or crisis I’m experiencing becomes clear, whether through the wise counsel of a friend or therapist, a sudden opportunity, the intervention of an outside force, or some other unexpected happening.
No matter how many times this happens to me, I’m still surprised. I imagine God rather rolling their eyes a little and giving an indulgent sigh at my lack of faith. Then again, maybe it’s a sure sign of faith that I shout at God rather than the world around me. At least I know God is there to listen.
When have I complained to God? How has God responded?