DAY 3: A Savior Who Empathizes

Let’s take a moment today to be with God. If you want to do this as a family, we encourage you to set aside time after your own quiet time to go through the family content at the bottom together.

PAUSE
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”—Hebrews 4:15–16 (NIV)

Shared experiences bond people. When someone understands what we’re going through, it brings comfort and confidence. As members of the body of Christ, we share many of the same struggles and challenges. But what’s even more amazing is that Jesus Himself understands us “in every way.”

Hebrews 4 reminds us that Jesus faced every temptation and hardship we do. He felt hunger, exhaustion, sadness, stress, and rejection. Even in fasting, He was tempted to give in. He knows how hard it is to discipline the body for the sake of the Spirit. But He overcame every temptation so that, through Him, we can do the same.

PONDER

It’s usually around the third to fifth days of fasting that we hit a rough patch. Satan knows fasting is powerful and will try to make you crave what you’ve given up. Look to Jesus’ example in Matthew 4. Remember to “approach God’s throne of grace with confidence” and receive His strength.

PRAY

Father, thank You for Jesus, my High Priest, who understands my struggles. Strengthen me to overcome temptation as He did. Help me stay steadfast and experience all You have for me in this journey. Amen.

For Your Family

PAUSE

Read Hebrews 4:15–16 out loud with your kids. Whether you go on a walk, talk in the car, discuss at dinner, or gather before bed, choose a time in your day to discuss and pray together.

PONDER

Share this main idea with them.

• Jesus understands how we feel and wants us to come to Him.

Ask them:

• What do you need to share with Jesus?

PRAY

Guide your children to pray using these prayer points.

• Thank Jesus for His kindness.
• Ask Jesus for His grace and mercy today.
• Pray for someone else who needs Jesus’ love.

Pray this over your children:

Jesus, thank You for understanding how we feel and wanting us to come to You! Strengthen my kids (name them) to overcome any temptations. Help them be honest with You about everything and grow to trust You more. Amen.