Hebrews 4:15-16 — “For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

“You just don’t understand me!”

I have often expressed this frustration. All human beings are made with different temperaments, different likes and dislikes, different ways of handling situations and different feelings about matters. This is compounded by differing life experiences and influences. All these mold us and help determine how we respond to life’s circumstances, making it rare to find someone who can look within our heart and fully understand our needs and struggles.

When my husband and I were first married, we quickly saw differences in our personalities. While we were more than willing to accept these, it has taken years to understand each other.

Over time, my husband, who is energized by crowds and activities, recognized that I often craved quiet moments at home to recharge for the next big social encounter. Likewise I have learned that he is motivated and recharged by meeting and greeting in social situations.

We have come to appreciate these character traits in each other, but will never fully understand them in an experiential way because we are so different.

But I am glad to say that there is Someone who understands us perfectly. Not only because He is our Creator, but because He became one of us. Jesus took on a human body and lived on earth experiencing all we do. He was tempted, though without sin. He suffered hardship, pain, rejection and more. He lived life as we do, and yet also understands our inner workings.

“You don’t understand me!” doesn’t apply to Jesus. He formed us, designated our personality traits, walks with us through every circumstance, and has personally experienced all that we encounter every day.

All of this and more is why He alone can offer the understanding and help we need. He became the perfect source of salvation for everyone who obeys Him, and because of His life we are able to approach God confidently and receive the grace and mercy we need so desperately.

Good friends and family are God’s gifts. Yet no matter how loving they are, there will always be times when we are forced to say, “You just don’t understand me!”

Jesus knows and understands the deepest places of our hearts and bids us to draw near confidently to His throne of grace. Speak freely because you won’t be misunderstood. And there you will find all the forgiveness, mercy, and help you need. The Savior understands you.

Sandra Sheridan is a Midwest wife and mother of five. She shares her messages to her children with Farm World. Visit her at www.VersesFromMama.com