A “Simon” Relationship
Contrite Heart – Part 1

Scripture Reading: Psalm 51:16-19

Key Verse: Psalm 51:17

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.

If we choose to enter into a friendship where we expressly desire that person to speak tough truth, I call that a “Simon” relationship.  You would only choose that if you have come to a point in your life where there is deep determination to get better.  I’ll use the contestants on American Idol as an example since I’m using “Simon” as an icon for this series.  Why would these contestants put themselves out there for such brutal treatment by Simon and the other judges? These young people are so determined to get to the level of professional singers that they submit to the stinging truths.

I’m very aware that most of you who are reading this week’s theme would never sign up for a “Simon” relationship.  Most of you are not that driven or miserable where you are, so why submit to brutal truth?  However, a few of you are probably sick and tired of being sick and tired in your emotional and/or mental state.  Some of you have made such a mess of your relationships that you feel desperate to get rid of the junk that keeps destroying the good that has come your way!  I hope these devotionals have encouraged you to find a “Simon” relationship.  You need someone to be completely honest and help you see and deal with things you can’t see in yourself!

Father, I need your help to have enough courage to allow people to speak tough truth into my life.  I ask for it in Jesus’ name, amen.