Day 5 — Deep Water

“The intentions of a man’s heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out.”

— Proverbs 20:5 (BSB)

Imagine an old well, deep in the ground. Way down at the bottom is cool, fresh water. But you can’t get it just by looking at it. You need a bucket and a rope to draw it out.

Proverbs says a person’s heart is like that: “deep waters.” There’s a lot going on down inside every guy: thoughts, worries, hurts, hopes, questions and dreams. But much of it stays hidden. A lot of guys are really good at keeping it all down there.

Someone asks, “How are you?” and you say, “Fine.” Your mom asks, “What’s wrong?” and you say, “Nothing.” You feel hurt, and you act like you don’t care. You’re worried, and you crack a joke instead.

Sometimes that’s okay. Not every feeling needs to be shared with everyone. But when you keep everything bottled up for a long time, the pressure builds. It can come out as anger, or make you feel alone, or even make you sick.

That’s why the verse says: “a man of understanding draws them out.” A wise man knows how to bring up what’s deep inside, in his own heart and in others’.

Here’s how to draw out the deep water:

• Find your person. Who’s someone you can really talk to? Your dad, your mom, a grandparent, a coach, a youth leader?
• Talk side by side. Lots of guys find it easier to talk while they’re doing something: shooting hoops, driving in the car, fishing, fixing something or going for a walk.
• Start small. You don’t have to share everything at once. “Can I tell you something that’s been bugging me?” is a great start.
• Write it down. Journaling helps you figure out what you’re actually feeling.
• Tell God first. He already knows what’s down there, and He invites you to pour it out.

And be a man of understanding for your friends too. When a friend seems off, don’t just ignore it. Ask, “Hey, are you okay? Really?” and then listen.

Talking about what’s going on inside isn’t weak. It takes courage. And it’s how deep water turns into something good.

Think about it: Are you someone who keeps things bottled up, or someone who talks about them? Who’s your person?

Try this: Invite your dad or another trusted grown-up to do something side by side with you this week, and tell him one thing that’s been on your mind.

Dear God, You know everything deep in my heart. Help me not to keep everything bottled up. Give me people I can talk to, and courage to draw out what’s inside. And help me be a good listener for my friends. In Jesus’ name, Amen.