For we do not have a High Priest who is unable to sympathize and understand our weaknesses and temptations, but One who has been tempted [knowing exactly how it feels to be human] in every respect as we are, yet without [committing any] sin. Therefore let us approach the throne of grace with confidence and without fear, so that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find [His amazing] grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:15-16 AMP
The dictionary defines desperation as a state of despair and hopelessness, often leading to rash decisions and reckless behavior. That is sobering. If we stop just a moment and think, we will probably realize that many of the worst decisions people make are driven by desperation. Has that ever been true for you?
What makes us desperate? What makes us desperate is what we need or want more than anything and we don’t see how we can handle it. It’s the thing that keeps us up at night and keeps us from focusing in the daylight. Desperation is the most helpless feeling a human will ever have. And everyone has been there. Sometimes in the times when we feel desperate, we further complicate the situation by feeling shame and guilt because the situation seems impossible.
But Jesus gets you and your desperation. The shame does not come from Him. He sympathizes and understands our weaknesses and temptations because He knows what it is like to be human. If we let our desperation drive us to the Source, to the One who can give us just what we need, we will find desperation and blessing can be two sides of the coin.
In fact, because that is who Jesus is and how He is, we are invited to bring our desperation directly to Him. We can bring it to Him with confidence and without fear. But be careful to not let the situation become your focus. Evaluate your life. Honestly see if Jesus is still at the center of it all. If you have shifted and lost Jesus as your center in some way, ask for forgiveness and help to always keep Him at the heart of everything, all of it – blessings and challenging times.
What will you get? You will freely receive mercy for your failures and amazing grace for every need. He will give you strength as you hold on and honor Him during the desperation and when the answer comes. The answer WILL come. God works when things seem impossible. It may come out differently than you saw it happening, but giving Jesus your desperation will lead to something good. Just because things aren’t going as you planned doesn’t mean they aren’t going as they should. You will see that when Jesus is your High Priest, your Source, blessing and desperation can walk hand in hand.
- How can your current situation drive you to Jesus? Stay focused on Him … that’s where blessing lies.