January 17, 2008
Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. Hebrews 2:18
This verse is often shared with us to say that Jesus understands. He knows what we are going through. He loves us. He was tempted, so he gets it when we are tempted.
But let’s look at this another way. Do we understand what He went through? Do we know that He was tempted in the midst of humiliation, physical suffering, betrayal, shame, loneliness?
That’s a part of the gospel story that is often glossed over. Jesus suffered. Does that mean if we are Christ followers that we might suffer, too? I think it does, and are we willing to embrace that portion of the journey?
I’ve never suffered physical pain because I call myself Christian, and yet in 60 countries across the world, believers have.
Suffering looks different in this culture. It may be that you’re considered intolerant because you have convictions or because you believe that Jesus is God. It may be that mom or dad don’t understand your commitment to faith. It may mean that you feel alone because your friends can do things that the Bible clearly says is off limits for you.
Faith often takes you in a direction that seems challenging. Your love for God means that you will deny temptation. Your beliefs may not win you favor.
That’s the whole truth. Following Christ is amazing. It’s life changing. But it can also be hard.
And I can’t imagine living without Him.
Real Quote: I also am not convinced that one of the spiritual laws, namely, that God loves you and has a plan for your life was interpreted by its hearers very well. That statement, by its very nature, conveys an idea of cushiness or maybe an unstated promise that everything will turn out well. when in fact, Jesus says ‘follow me’ and then heads straight for a pile of wood and nails, namely, the cross. So if you think you’re signing up for a cushy faith and get the nailed-to-a-tree kind of faith, then you can’t help but feel like there was a little bait and switch going on. Anonymous twentysomething believer
Cindi Hoppes says:
This reminds me of the Rabbi’s book called
When Bad Things Happen to Good People!”
Sometimes, I think Christians tend to think that life should go their way or their prayers be answered how they want them to be. After the death of my mom and brother four months apart, I began praying,”Thy Will be Done!” In the end, God knows the best plans. Thanks,Cindi