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 he did not sin. Hebrews 4:15

So often the enemy deceives us into believing that we are completely alone when faced with temptation, loneliness, depression, hopelessness, or any other debilitating state of mind. This verse of truth will dispel that lie and remind us of the power of the Holy Spirit that is ready for our use. Our high priest is Jesus because he came in human form, he experienced everything human. He is more than qualified to empathize with the struggles we face every day. There is something comforting to know that you are not the only one who has ever felt the way you do. When sadness and turmoil begin to fill you because of circumstances whether it be your own sin or trials around you, remember that your high priest not only has experienced what you are going through but overcame it!

He knows what our weaknesses are. This includes not only the temptation we face but also the things that break our hearts, confuse us, anger us, scare us, and seem to cripple us. Too often we take for granted what Jesus' perfect life and success over weakness and sin means for us. It means power. If he has overcome it then by his strength we can overcome it as well.

Trust that because he has already been and is right where you are that you have the opportunity to reach out and use his power to defeat the deceptions of the enemy. Because Jesus came to earth in human form he not only has seen all of the pitfalls of humanity but he has experienced them. Because his experience on earth is much greater than ours and was completely perfect we can rest in the great wisdom he has for how to overcome the trials that spring up. We can trust that our greatest confidant will not lead us astray but will direct us because he already knows the way in which we should go and wishes to protect us from the destruction that sin and deception can bring us.

That phrase "just as we are" again strengthens our knowledge of the oneness we have in Christ. As we are tempted to give into sin or sorrow we must remember that the trials we go through are opportunities for us to grab onto the strength and wisdom of one greater than us so that we may become more like him. Not only does our kinship to Christ exist when we are able to walk easily but it exists even in our darkest hours and reminds us that we are not alone and that through Christ we can overcome the world because he has overcome the world. Our high priest is more than equipped to empathize so never believe the deception that you are alone or are unable to overcome temptation.

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Dear Lord,
We just want to praise you and thank you for empathizing with us. Lord, you came down in human form and led a holy life. This is a testament not only to your perfection but also to the fact that with your power, we can become more and more like you. Jesus, shape us to be like you. In our darkest hours remind us of the power this verse promises us. You know us so intimately and have your fingerprints all over every aspect of our lives, how wonderful it is to know that you care so much for us that you would share fellowship with us and offer us your power! Help us to garner that power and to overcome the temptations and adversity in this life so that we may be made more like you Jesus. In your holy name, amen!