Key Ideas
Faith Fact
God helps me when bad things happen.
Faith Verse
Philippians 4:13 (NLT)
For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
Question of the Day: Does Jesus understand my suffering?
Read about It
Read: Hebrews 2:16–18
Have you ever tried telling a funny story to someone who didn’t see the event as it happened? They may have found the story mildly amusing, but not nearly as funny as those who saw it. Or maybe you’ve tried describing something incredible to someone, but they just weren’t getting it because they didn’t experience it with you.
Jesus understands what we’re feeling when bad things happen because He suffered when He lived here on earth. He endured the emotional pain of being misunderstood by His family (Mark 3:20–21), unfair public criticism including death threats, betrayal by close associates, and a wrongful conviction and death sentence. Physically, He endured hunger, travel over long distances in harsh conditions, being physically beaten, and being publicly executed in a slow, brutal manner. He is no stranger to pain and heartbreak, so who better do we have to go to when we face difficulties ourself? Suffering is a part of life, and, at some point, everyone faces trouble. However, God is merciful and is always faithful to help us.
Talk about It
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Question 1. Through what special job does Jesus show us mercy? Answer 1. High priest (Hebrews 2:17)
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| Question 2. What trouble did Jesus experience as a human?
Answer 2. He was misunderstood, unfairly criticized, betrayed, beaten, and executed.
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| Question 3. How does Jesus understand my suffering?
Answer 3. Because He himself suffered when He was here on earth, He can help us when we face difficult times. (Hebrews 2:18)
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| Question 4. What connections do you see between things you are facing and things Jesus faced?
Answer 4. Answers may vary.
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| Question 5. How can knowing Jesus understands what you’re going through change how you face and react to difficult situations?
Answer 5. Answers may vary. |
Pray about It
esus, thank You for coming to earth and sharing in our suffering. When I face difficulties, help me to always turn to You knowing that You love me and want the best for me. Amen.