Jesus Understands

“Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, ‘I am thirsty.’” 
John 19:28 (NIV) 

Could your deepest pain lead you to feeling completely understood? 

Scientists say the most agonizing pain the human body can experience is thirst. Jesus Christ hangs on the cross with cracked lips and a swollen tongue, literally dying for a drink of water. “I am thirsty,” He said.  

How do these words encourage you in your own suffering?  

When you hurt, you know Jesus has hurt, too. 

If He could turn water into wine and feed more than 5,000 people with two fish and five loaves, why not quench His parched mouth? Why not command legions of angels to bring Him water right there on that cross?  

Because His love for you compels Him to endure. To experience exactly what you do. To be able to empathize with every experience you face–and walk you through it.  

Physical suffering, emotional heartache, and feelings of spiritual helplessness–Jesus experiences it all. Abuse by enemies, desertion by friends and family, and feeling forsaken by His Father–Jesus wants you to know that what you feel, He has felt…what you experience, He has experienced.  

Jesus knows firsthand what you face in this world because He faced it as well. Perhaps you are hurting physically because of disease or disability. Maybe you are hurting emotionally because you have been deserted or disappointed.  

Do you feel discouraged and disappointed? Take heart! Jesus felt all of this and more, and He understands. He has been where you are and felt what you feel. In your hurt, you can always admit your pain to a Savior who knows exactly how you feel.  

Prayer: Father, Thank You for Your comfort and companionship when I suffer. You were thirsty and You sit with me when I feel like I’m in the desert, parched and weary. Help me remember to bring my pain to You when I am hurting. Thank You for suffering so that I could be comforted. In Jesus’ Name, Amen