“For 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 is without sin.” Hebrews 4:15 (NIV)
Outcast.
Alone.
Defeated.
Sometimes this world can overwhelm and undermine the most positive of people.
Maybe you’ve had a rough day, a wacky week or even an awful year. Maybe you just want to give up. Maybe you just don’t have any more fight left in you.
You believe no one understands. No one could possibly comprehend. No one has ever felt like this before. Maybe you feel you can’t stop the steep spiral down into the depths.
Yet, you’re not alone.
Really.
We have promises we can and should call upon. We don’t have a high priest who is unable to empathize. In other words, He knows.
Jesus knew the depths of despair. When his sweat poured blood and He repeatedly asked His Father to take away His burden in the Garden of Gethsemane.
He knows.
He knows the feelings of defeat. Of loneliness. Of no way out.
He knows.
How did He continue? He trusted in God to provide what He needed to get through it.
And God did.
God fulfilled His promise in Deuteronomy 31:7b, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
God promised Jesus and each of us, in Jeremiah 29:11 “I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” He designed those plans at the beginning of time.
So, how do we go from despair to deep trust when nothing seems to change?
God didn’t change Jesus’ assignment. He may not change yours or mine. Philippians 4:8 tells us, “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.”
Basically, think positively.
What is true? The promises in Scripture. Lean on those. Copy them where you will see them as reminders. When we feel we lack the faith to murmur a prayer, God promises to provide that faith.
The Holy Spirit is interceding for you right now. (Romans 8:26)
Jesus is interceding for you right now. (Hebrews 7:25)
Jesus knows.
He understands.
He comprehends.
And, He’s not content to sit on the sidelines watching you suffer.
He wants to help. “I have come that they may have life and have it abundantly.” John 10:10 (ESV)
An abundant life.
Not just a peaceful eternity when this life is over, but an abundant life here, today. A life filled with joy, fulfillment, laughter and love. A life with purpose and meaning. A life that is carried through challenges and setbacks by a Father who truly cares.
Life as a Christian is not promised to be easy. But it is promised to be abundant. And He promises to be with us each step of the way, if we only invite Him.
Will you?
Reflections:
Which promise speaks significantly into your heart? Please share it with us!
Prayer: Dear God, Please lead me to recall and lean on Your promises as I navigate daily life. Remind me to spend time in Your word, as I can’t recall what I don’t know. Thank You for Your great love which is demonstrated throughout Your word. Thank You for this life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thanks for reading! Please return by Monday, April 11, for the next post.
God did promise never to leave or forsake us, and despite all the hardships I have endured in life, I have noticed just how true this really is. And being a witnesses to this promise in evidence of my own life, I can better face new challenges because God is already there. He’s got this! He’s got me!
Yes He does! He already knows what each day holds and He’s already placed what we will need into motion!
Thank you for your testimony☺️
Very good reminder. Thank you.