Jesus Knows How You Feel

When I was growing up one of my heroes was Elvis Presley. I loved the music and personality of the man. Elvis could wow a crowd, make the ladies swoon and charm his way out of any trouble. What I didn't know about the King of Rock and Roll was much more important than what I knew and admired. Elvis was a lonely man addicted to drugs and illicit affairs with many different women. The public mask the man wore hid sin and brokenness underneath.

As I grew up and learned more about Elvis and the problems with which he struggled, I began to feel great sympathy for him. So many people are living life everyday just as Elvis did; wearing a happy mask of invincibility while struggling behind the scenes with all forms of brokenness and depravity. Even our kings are mere mortals! We all face our own brand of temptation, struggle and pain. Life can be tough and for many this toughness overwhelms and destroys.

Jesus understands our many struggles and was tempted just as we are everyday. Hebrews 4:15 reads, "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weakness, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin." Our High Priest, Jesus, was tempted to give up, be overwhelmed and sin but chose instead to obey the Father and follow His will. Jesus understands what you feel, how you think and the temptations you face because he has had those same feelings, considered those same thoughts and experienced those same temptations!

Go to Jesus with your weakness, struggles and temptations. Take off your mask and ask others to go to Jesus and pray for you. Elvis did not have to die of a drug overdose at age 42. You do not have to allow your fear, struggle and sin to overwhelm and consume your life either! Jesus understands, loves and offers new life if you will come to Him today!

James