I suppose there are many times in life when we wonder what is going on in our lives, both individually and collectively as a people. Most often in those moments, our thoughts center on what is right in front of us. We tend to have tractor-beam-vision when it comes to the challenges we face. Our immediate problems seem to consume our every thought.
As we search out the trodden-down paths through the adventures of life, it helps to know that we are not alone. Everyone around us has their own challenges in life. Everyone around us has their own struggles and hardships. We all face them. Obviously, some more so than others. But the truth remains: We all face them. So, we can take solace in the fact that we are not alone when it comes to trying times in life.
Not only do we have people all around us who can relate with the emotions and hardships we face, but we also have a God who knows exactly what we are going through. Christ experienced this life in the same way that we do. As God in the flesh, He experienced our world so that He can identify with us, so that He can sympathize with us. The Hebrew writer noted, "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" (Hebrews 4:15). He would go on to write, "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (v.16).
As we reflect on the work of God among His people throughout history, we are able to see His steadfast love and faithfulness. We ought to allow the deeds of God to inform and strengthen us as we face challenging times in life. What a wonderful blessing it is to serve such a mighty, awesome God, a God who loves us and cares for us beyond all our understanding.
