The Helper for the Hurting

“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:14-16

It is said that one of the most frightening things about summer in coastal Georgia is thunder storms. With little warning, storm clouds gather, inland water ways turn dark and angry, and enraged coastal breezes mark their path along the sand dunes and marshes. Energized by the intense heat of summer temperatures, lightening strikes and often runs rapidly across the ground. All within its path suffers.

Many times the emotional hurts we face seem just as intense and destructive as being hit by lightening. Without warning a child runs away from home, a friend intentionally hurts us, a husband or wife commits adultery, a child sexually abused, or an incurable disease shows up in our test results. Life is full of many sorrows. But we are not alone.

Jesus came to personally identify with our hurts, with our fears, our rejections, and our suffering. He is God, but often we overlook the fact that He is a personal God who wants to share in our hurts and frustrations. When we hurt, Jesus hurts. He wants us to know He understands how it feels to be mocked, forgotten, and humiliated. No storm of life is stronger than His love and understanding. Whatever you are facing, take it to Jesus. He will calm the whirlwind within you.

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1