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I realized today that, for me personally, being misunderstood is one of the most painful things in relationships with other human beings. Involved with being misunderstood is often a judgment of your character, motives, or heart. Sometimes it means someone - even one whom you dearly love or care about - thought you intentionally tried to hurt them, rebel against them, or lash out against them. Sometimes it means they think less of you, get angry at you, or try to take revenge - for something you have no idea you even "did!" Job knew what this felt like: "O Earth, don’t cover up the wrong done to me! Don’t muffle my cry! There must be Someone in heaven who knows the truth about me, in highest heaven, some Attorney who can clear my name— My Champion, my Friend, while I’m weeping my eyes out before God." (Job 16:18-20) Along with this revelation that I will never "run out" of humans on earth that will misunderstand me, I also had the revelation of how amazing it is that God NEVER misunderstands me! He knows my heart and knows why I take every action, speak every word, write every sentence, cry every tear, and sing every song. I never have to worry about Him taking something the "wrong way" or thinking ill of my actions if there are truly good intentions in my heart. There is nobody else on the earth that will every know me so fully, understand me so wholly, or love me so unconditionally. It brought me to tears when the truth hit me that I am totally understood by the God of the universe! What an amazing and precious gift that is! Thank you, Lord! May I be able to live my life "well" in the midst of storms and tribulation, and be able to say with confidence: "…God knows where I am and what I’ve done. He can cross-examine me all he wants, and I’ll pass the test with honors. I’ve followed him closely, my feet in his footprints, not once swerving from his way. I’ve obeyed every word he’s spoken, and not just obeyed his advice—I’ve treasured it. " (Job 23:10-12) In the end, what He thinks of me and how I’ve walked out my years on this earth is what matters most. May my life be about walking in life-long obedience, honoring and pleasing Him - and Him alone.