Tag Archives: the book of Hebrews

“Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.”  (Hebrews 2:18, NIV)

Empathy = “‘Been there. Done that’ — and reaching back to help others traveling the same road.”

The cost of empathy is always a personal one, which is why it resonates in a way that “informed” but “inexperienced” advice and presence cannot.

As the architect of humanity, Jesus was certainly informed of the human condition; but without becoming fully human Himself, it is like being the designer of a house, but never living within the house of one’s own  design.  Living in the human condition is different than being informed of it.

When you endure hardship, know that there is One who has walked in your shoes Who is able to help you live through the difficulty; and also know that you are becoming the one who, like Jesus, is able to empathize with others in their distress.  It is a gift.  – Luther

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“Now that we know what we have — Jesus, this great High Priest with ready access to God — let’s not let it slip through our fingers.  We don’t have a priest who is out of touch with our reality.  He’s been through weakness and testing, experienced it all — all but the sin.  So let’s walk right up to him and get what he is so ready to give.  Take the mercy, accept the help.”  (Hebrews 4:14-16, The Message)

If you believe that asking for help as a sign of weakness, you’re right! It is a sign of weakness.

Knowing our true state, God has provided the example of His Son — tested in every human situation!  Having passed each test with a perfect score; Jesus — the victor — has provided His own spirit to give us the inspiration and the power to succeed.

Trouble and trial stalk us like prey.  “Take the mercy. Accept the help.”  – Luther

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