FEBRUARY 12
Psalm 31:7, “You have seen my affliction; you have known the distress of my soul.”
Two deaths in one week in one home demanded my attention. The passing of the hospice patient was anticipated, but the other was not. Such sorrow in a household—two losses in quick succession—is a heavy burden. As I made my way to visit, these thoughts consumed my mind. Whom am I to offer comfort? How can I? I prayed for God to lead me, realizing that some depths of pain and sorrow are beyond human understanding—only the God of all comfort can truly attend to them (2 Corinthians 1:3).
God, the Creator, knows us intimately. In His omniscience, He understands us completely. It was He who knit us together in the womb (Psalm 139:13). He is acquainted with all our ways (Psalm 139:2-3), and He knows what we will say before we speak (Psalm 139:4). He ordained the number of our days before our first (Psalm 139:16). Nothing in our lives surprises Him. This is a comfort, especially in times of distress.
But God’s knowledge goes beyond mere awareness—He also cares. In love, He sent His Son, who endured unimaginable suffering. “Because He Himself has suffered when tempted, He is able to help those who are being tempted” (Hebrews 2:18). As our High Priest, He “can sympathize with our weaknesses,” having been tempted in every way we are, yet without sin (Hebrews 4:16). He is the expert in affliction, and we can bring our troubles to Him with the assurance that He understands and knows how best to handle them. With this knowledge, we are encouraged to approach the throne of grace with confidence, seeking help in our time of need (Hebrews 4:16).
I often say: No one knows us better, cares more deeply, or is more capable of intervening than God. While others may not grasp the specifics of our pain, He does. While it may seem that no one else cares, God does. And when earthly resources fall short, God is more than capable of turning things around (Romans 8:28). Therefore, we do well to place our trust in Him, always.
It is God, who knows me intimately and loves me intentionally, who is best able to help me in times of trouble!
Application Questions: Do you sometimes feel as if no one understands what you are going through? The hymn says, “Jesus knows all about our struggles.” Why is it important to keep that truth in mind? He knows and cares—pray accordingly.
LookingtoJesus 