Jesus Understands You

Each of us is different.  Each of us has a different basic need and insecurity - something that we struggle with.  Each of us has a question we are always trying to answer for ourselves.

For some, it's "am I significant?"

For some, it's "am I good enough?"

For some, it's "is God real?"

Jesus loved all of His disciples, and He interacted with them differently.

Peter was the first to speak and probably the first in line.  Peter had a big personality and presence in the group.  Jesus would affirm Peter in public, and could also coach him in public.  Peter liked attention because he was always asking himself the question, "am I significant?" 

However, with John, Jesus probably addressed in private.  The only picture we have of Jesus' interaction with John is that John sat close to the Master, with his head on His shoulder.  Jesus must have known that John had some deep-rooted issues of not feeling loved, or not being accepted.  John was probably always following behind, stuck in his low self esteem.  He was asking himself, "am I good enough?"  Jesus would go to John and invite him to walk closely with Him as a sign that Jesus loved and accepted him.

My son, Michael is thoughtful and detailed.

Thomas was the only disciple that Jesus had to prove Himself to - that by touching His wounds.  I wonder if Jesus was always explaining Himself and clarifying His message to the group because He knew Thomas was sitting in the back row shaking his head skeptically.  Yet, Jesus was not frustrated with Thomas' desire to truly understand and believe (I'm sure the rest of the disciples rolled their eyes.) Jesus actually loves that we want to understand, that we want to go deeper.  The Master will lead us to a greater revelation of truth.

Peter - extravert - bold, brash, speak before thinking - Jesus could call Him out.  Jesus also knew that He needed public affirmation.

John - introvert - wounded, quiet, withdrawn - Jesus drew John close to Him.  Jesus connected with John on a more intimate level, beyond words

Thomas - logical, late adopter, skeptical - Jesus was patient with Him and explained Himself to him.  Jesus allowed Himself to be examined.  "Come and see."

My daughter, Madison is spontaneous and outgoing.

Jesus understands you, because He made you.  He knows exactly what you need, and He will connect with you on your level.  Jesus is not in a hurry.  Of all the things that Jesus could be concerned about in the universe, He is most interested in connecting with you - personally.  Jesus wants relationship - He is relational.  

If you need affirmation or coaching like Peter, Jesus will provide that.  

On the other hand, if you are like John and cringe at the thought of being called out in front of everyone, God will protect you.  God will lavish His love and embrace you.

Maybe you can relate to Thomas - you JUST need to know for sure - you need some concrete evidence - faith is difficult for you.  God will prove Himself to you over and over because He is True.

Whatever you are - whatever you need - whatever question you are asking yourself today - 

Jesus understands you. 

 He wants to connect with you today.

Take a moment to spend time with Jesus today and let Him speak to you.  He will answer your questions.