I was watching a boy singing a sad song on a TV show called the Voice, and as the judges turned in their chairs to face him, I felt God speak to my heart: “That’s Me.”

I was actually confused. Why would God say He was a judge, spinning in one of those large chairs? Then I realized it wasn’t that. Because I had been feeling weighed down by several heartbreaks, and the world made my emotions seem like a burden that needed to be covered up, I felt unseen and alone. And perhaps this boy felt that way, too, as he poured his heart into that song. But the judges didn’t leave him alone on stage with their backs turned to him; instead, they pressed the button that swiveled their chair and watched him sing, absorbing the emotion in his voice.

Who would want to hear a song without passion? In music, if the lyrics are all monotone and empty, no one cares to listen to it. It’s just dry. Like lukewarm coffee, we’d spit it out of our mouths. In the same way, emotion is what makes us relate to lyrics and enjoy the music.

Just like those judges turned to face him, that’s what God did for me. When very few others could, God met me where I was and told me He sees my hurt. He sees the betrayal, the tears, the grief. And when I’m pleading and alone in my dark room, where no one can physically see what’s going on, He does. Just as it’s written in the psalms, God cares for our hurt. He cares for those without a rescuer.

One of my favorite bible stories includes this: Hannah, in the beginning of the book of Samuel, cried out to God for a son. At first, Eli turned her away for acting “drunk”, but then he realized she had been pouring out her heart to God and told her, “Go in peace. May God grant the request you have asked of him.” (Samuel 1:17 NLT) And he did. God heard her prayer and blessed her with Samuel.

So, dear reader, whenever you feel unseen or like your emotions are a burden, step up on stage and sing your heart out to God. It’s okay to reveal whatever you’re feeling. Yes, it truly is a blessing when others are there for you, but even if they aren’t, He is the one who will always turn and listen to whatever is on your heart!