Why Jesus Understands Your Every Struggle
By Frank Eiklor and Cecilia Contreras
LESSON 32 Part 1
INTRODUCTION
We all go through struggles and battles where we think no one really understands. That is partly true. Though you and I may face the same type of battle, each of us has a separate sense of pain and responds differently. However, sometimes we get in deep trouble by believing a subtle lie placed in our minds by Satan himself that says, “God does not understand what you are going through. If He did, He wouldn’t allow you to have such pain. Christ has let you down!” That is the lie of all lies. Once we see what Jesus endured for us, we will never dare say, “God doesn’t understand!”
What are some of the struggles you and I endure?
· Do you ever feel like a failure?
· Are you battling weaknesses or sins?
· Do you feel like you are standing alone – even in your home?
· Are you being tormented with doubts about the future?
· Do you feel like God has failed you financially?
· Do you believe deep in your heart that no one really cares?
· Do you feel condemned because what people see in you is not what you
really believe you are?
· Do you fear the new global realities and the next generation?
· Do you feel inadequate in your ministerial role?
· Do you battle doubts regarding God’s call on your life?
If we do not study the life of Jesus, it is easy to believe our isolated pain is so terrible that even Jesus could not understand. But now, let’s take a look at what Christ faced and why Scripture says, “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” (Hebrews 4:15)
1. Jesus’ birth was mocked. In John 8:41, the Pharisees insinuated that Jesus was born out of fornication, while they were of noble birth. No matter how humble your birth, God has His own plan for your life.
2. He was rejected by His own family members. In John 7:5, “For neither did His brethren believe in Him.” If you are rejected by your family members because of your walk with Jesus, just keep your testimony and life clean before the Lord and continue to love your family unconditionally.
3. He was rejected by His closest friends. When Jesus faced the pain of the cross, Matthew 26:56 says, “Then all the disciples forsook him, and fled.” If you will walk in obedience to His Word, you will find Christ at your side even if others turn away.
4. He was betrayed by an intimate associate. Concerning Judas, Jesus says, “Friend, why have you come?” (Matthew 26:50) Judas kissed Him and sold Him out. That is why Jesus understands when you are betrayed by a loved one or a friend.
5. Jesus had no real home. In Luke 9:58, we read, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man has nowhere to lay his head.” Jesus knows your own material needs and promises to be your supply.
6. He knows what it is to stand alone. When it was time to face the cross, Isaiah prophesied concerning Jesus: “The Lord God has opened my ear, and I was not rebellious, neither turned away back. I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the hair: I hid not my face from shame and spitting” (Isaiah 50:5,6). In Luke 9:51 we see its fulfillment, “And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he steadfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem.” Yes, Jesus knew what it was to feel alone! He will give you His presence and the courage to face every test and temptation that comes your way.
To Be Continued
