Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery. For surely it is not angels that he helps, but he helps the offspring of Abraham. Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.

Hebrews 2:14-18

This morning a friend described to me how her sixteen-month-old grandson is struggling with his physical development with a lack of appetite, weight gain, and muscle tone. As parents and grandparents we have experienced a couple of what are comparatively mild challenges and so no matter how much effort I put forth, I was still unable to fully appreciate the situation.

Whether we face a temptation or a troubling situation, when it comes to the things we face in any aspect of life, Jesus is not limited at all. Hebrews tells us He is “crowned with glory and honor” but He also knows firsthand what it means to feel pain, to be tempted, to suffer.

Take a look at the passage from Hebrews 2 above. I marked some of the key phrases in bold. It tells us that Jesus “had to be made like” us in every way so that He might be:

Merciful – For those who will repent and turn to Him he is willing and waiting to forgive.

Faithful – He is faithful and just and He has paid the price for our sins.

Helpful – Only God in the flesh who has lived as one of us is truly able to help.

Whatever the day brings, He is merciful, faithful, and able to help. What would happen if we took our circumstances directly to Him today?