| A COMFORTING EXAMPLE Hebrews 2:18 Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. Feelings and emotions are part of our everyday lives. Sometimes we wonder if we can even last another day because of how horrible we feel or the tragic emotions surging through our bodies. One day we might feel like a million dollars and then feel like someone threw us into a garbage compactor the next day. I imagine and would even bet that we experience more emotions and feelings running through our systems than we understand. It's part of being human. And, it's truly frustrating when we can't seem to find another person who clearly understands the exact pain we have. We want the fast remedy of healing, but we really know the healing won't come quickly. Maybe with a small wound, but not with a large wound. There are times when our wounds just take time to heal and the only comfort we can obtain is knowing and talking to someone who has also been through similar experiences. There's just an unexplainable joy when we find someone who shares our feelings and emotions through our experiences. Not that the healing is immediate, but there is COMFORT. If there was no comfort, we would just sit and wait and wait and wait for healing. But, comfort is a vital part of healing. Picture all the times Jesus went through ridicule and torment. He was tempted much more than we could imagine. And, we must NEVER forget that He was 100% human flesh. Yes, He was perfect, but He was also made like His brothers so that He could literally experience the pain that we would have today and be able to provide comfort and relate to us. The next time someone accuses you of something, remember when Jesus was accused of things He didn't do. The next time someone makes fun of you for what you believe, remember that Jesus went through complete opposition because of what He believed and knew to be true from His Father. The next time a friend betrays you and you are tempted to throw a punch, share some unkind words or threats, remember what Jesus did for Judas. Looked him in the eyes and told him to do what he came to do. It truly amazes me all that Jesus went through and yet, remained absolutely perfect. I honestly could never have remained like Him. I would have given in to the temptation to get revenge many times and utter words which should have never left my mouth. But, Jesus never did. However, when He DID speak, it was wisdom from the Father and pure LOVE. No one understood it, but that's okay. Because to this day, we can read about it and understand that He did all He did so that we could have someone to relate to who understands our pain, grief, sorrow and despair. There is nothing we go through which Jesus can't comfort. Friends, that is the best comfort we could ever dream of or hope for. There is always a way out of temptation and struggles as long as we are trusting and leaning on the One who provides the best strength and comfort today. |
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