Being understood is profound. For example, in a marriage when your spouse understands you, despite all your shortcomings, the relationship thrives in many areas. And, being understood, the rough areas of the relationship prove to be a launch pad for improvement. My wife and I have been married for over 33 years. That’s a long time to study each other.

In recent years I have noticed how my wife makes adjustments in our relationship based on my many shortcomings. She can make these adjustments and avoid consequences because she understands the areas of life in which I don’t do well. Seeing her do this alerts me to the troubled area and allows me to consider making a change for the better. (sometimes I do better than others)

Most people have a fear of the unknown. We don’t know where change will lead, so we struggle to stay where we’re most comfortable.

However, being understood, and knowing we are understood, releases us from fear. Think about it; what if my wife asked me to make a major change in life. Knowing that she understands me empowers me with a confidence to move toward change. I believe it is as powerful as knowing she loves me and wants what is best for me.

Now, take this idea of being understood and apply it to your relationship with Jesus. As we continue our study of the book of Hebrews we are introduced to this same concept in our relationship with the Savior.

Hebrews 2:10 reads,  ^“For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering.” (ESV) 

We are going to see, as our study continues, that God the Father saw it fitting that Jesus suffer just as we do. In this verse it states that Jesus is leading us to glory. He is not leading us as one who doesn’t understand the way we suffer with sin and fear and doubt. However, He does lead us as one who was perfectly victorious over the things in which we fail daily. Jesus understands us! He is sympathetic to our plight and at the same time victoriously leading us through it.

I find great Joy in the Responsibility that is mine when my Benevolent King, my Sympathetic High Priest, my Victorious Older Brother, namely Jesus, leads me to glory with an understanding heart.

I look forward to our time together next Wednesday December 4^th. Have a Happy and Wonderful Thanksgiving!