For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our

weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.
Hebrews 4:15

- AUGUST 10 -

JESUS UNDERSTANDS WHAT YOU ARE GOING

THROUGH

Do you sometimes wonder if God really knows what it is like to be poor, rejected by people
or sick with aches and pains. Perhaps you are asking, “Does God really understand what I
am going through?”

My friend, Jesus was no stranger to emotional or physical pains, poverty or hardships. He

was born into a poor family. He had a smelly manger for His birthplace (see Luke 2:7). From
an early age, as a carpenter, He knew all about working hard with His hands, standing on
His feet all day long and returning home with aches in His body.

The religious leaders of His day made life difficult for Him. They challenged His authority
(see Matthew 21:23) and tested His teachings (see Matthew 19:3). They also called Him a
glutton, winebibber, friend of tax collectors and sinners (see Matthew 11:19), and
blasphemer (see Mark 2:7).

They said that He was demon-possessed and mad (see John 10:20), put Him on the spot
when they brought an adulterous woman to Him (see John 8:2–11), attempted to stone Him
(see John 8:59, 10:31–39) and accused Him of perverting the nation (see Luke 23:2).

Have you been chased out of your home because of your Christian beliefs? Jesus
understands what you are going through. He was chased out of His own hometown (see
Luke 4:29). Have you been rejected by someone you love? Jesus also experienced the pain
of being denied by a loved one (see Luke 22:54–62) and betrayed by one considered close
to Him (see Luke 22:47–48). He also knows all about the sickness you are suffering
because He bore your sicknesses and pains on the cross (see Isaiah 53:4).

Jesus certainly understands all that we are going through because being born fully Man, He
was “in all points tempted as we are.” He endured His sufferings for our sakes, so that we
can have His peace and the anointing to rise above the troubles we are facing!