Hebrews 4:14-5:10
Dear RTB’ers,
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. (v. 4:15) This verse offers comfort to us when we consider Jesus’ humanity up against our own humanity. If, in His humanity He was able to resist the devil’s temptations in the wilderness, then we can use His example as strength in our own temptation battles. When I read this verse I often connect it with a verse from Paul in one of his letters to the Corinthians: No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. (I Cor. 10:13) With every temptation that we face, God provides a …way of escape… for us, a way out. Often, to me, that “way out” is “just say no” – to hunger, to fear, to a need for power or money. But Jesus didn’t “just say no”. He responded to each of the devil’s temptations with Scripture verses. So Jesus’ example then gives us two ways out – Scripture and God’s Holy Spirit strength with our own “just say no” response. [He]…has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Thank you, Jesus!