But we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are – yet He did not sin.
Hebrew 4:15
One of the most effective lies Satan throws at us is the idea that we are alone in our struggles. The isolation we can feel at times gives our circumstances more power than they should be afforded. Finding someone who has walked the road before us gives us strength and hope for the future; that’s why counseling and accountability groups are so effective. Whether it’s AA, GriefShare, Alanon, a woman’s Bible study, or a book club, a commonality shared among two or more people gives hope and encouragement. This support is different from that you may receive from someone who has never experienced your specific struggle.
Jesus came to earth as fully God and fully man. Why? So He can say, I KNOW! I know your temptations; I know the hurts, the pain. He can empathize, encourage, and show us how to navigate every situation we find ourselves in. How incredible that we serve a God who not only created us but knows us and has experienced every emotion that He gave us, “yet He did not sin.” Going to Jesus in our greatest weaknesses not only dispels the loneliness and darkness, but also provides the light to the appropriate response and the strength to take the next step.
Lord, thank you that we can have joy deep in our souls, even in troubling circumstances, when we stay in communion with you.
