The psalmist is bitter and angry. When the words start to flow, giving expression to his inner hurt, they come out filled with wrath. Perhaps you have found the words you wrote in your journal, or the paint you put on the canvas, or the musical notes played to be anything but “Christian.” Let me remind you again of who receives these words, strokes, or notes—it is God, listening lovingly and patiently.

I grew up in a culture where any prayer, any God-talk, had to be filled with pious and reverent words. There was no room for expressing anger, disappointment, or hurt toward God. Prayers were supposed to be filled with flowery words of admiration, devotion, and praise, as if anything else would turn God into a lightning-wielding punisher of disrespect. That was until I started reading the psalms.

More often than not, psalmists start by giving God their worst, while eventually finding healing as they let off steam. Psalm 22 is a great example of this. But Psalm 137 is purely a psalm of venting with no healing yet. But, in letting go of those inner feelings of pain, the psalmist unknowingly starts down a road toward healing.

God is big enough to receive these bitter words from a psalmist who is disillusioned with life. God is big enough for when we lash out. I think God appreciates our honesty when we use words, images, and notes that answer God’s question, “Where do I find you?” While we spit venom, God hears, “Lord, this is a mess, I am in a mess, and I need you to hear my cries for help.” God is big enough, God is patient enough, and God understands.