Daily Devotions
Jesus Knows and Cares
Reading for December 18th: Hebrews 1-6
For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.
Hebrews 2:18
"But you don't understand."
It's hard for us to trust someone who is trying to help us when they don't understand what we're going through. I feel unqualified when dealing with someone going through a nasty divorce; someone trying to raise children as a single parent; someone dealing with the loss of a child; or someone who is experiencing chronic pain of some kind.
However, we know Jesus can sympathize with whatever we're going through. He knew physical pain. He suffered the most agonizing death imaginable.
Jesus knew emotional and spiritual pain. He had his closest friends forsake him and betray him.
Jesus knew stress. His stress didn't come from a selfish desire for protection, but because he felt an overwhelming burden for other people (thousands at a time on occasion). Jesus experienced sleepless nights when he would pray and find comfort that only God could give him.
What a blessing that we can carry all of our burdens and share them with him, knowing that he will listen with sympathy and respond with grace.
Father, we thank you so much for our High Priest who is praying for us even as we pray to you!
