“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.”

This is a reminder of the human nature of Jesus. Yes, He is God, and He has passed into the heavenly spheres, but that does not mean that He is with understand or feeling for the plight of human beings. He came as an infant, laying aside His Godliness, and experiencing life as a true human of flesh and blood. He was tempted, just like the rest of the human race. He was troubled and in pain, just like all of us. He experienced life, and it wasn’t in a royal palace protected by the king’s guards.

The amazing thing about Jesus is that He was able to live through it all and not disobey. He struggled and learned obedience in His suffering. Some people see Him as frail, but Jesus was a strong man, even stronger internally. He loved God with His whole heart and mind and spirit. He lived by the true Word and used it to defeat the temptation. God provides all of us with a way of escape, but we are not looking for the exit door; Jesus did.

Task for Today: Relax in the knowledge that your high priest is not some lofty unfeeling advocate. He knows you better than you know yourself. Seek the shelter of His arms, casting all your troubles at His feet knowing He has your back.