HE’s understanding…

I want us to take a look at how JESUS is kind to you, and whatever JESUS does for you, you're to do for other people.

First of all HE understands my weaknesses.  Understanding and kindness go together. 

The more understanding you are of a person, the kinder you're going to be to them.  That is why it is easy for you to be unkind to strangers.  You don't know anything about them.  Haven’t you found that the more people who live in an area, the easier it is to be unkind, because you don't know everybody?  When you understand somebody you're kind to them.  You know where they're coming from. 

Hebrews 4:15-16 (LB) "JESUS understands our weaknesses since HE had the same temptations we do, though HE never once gave way to them and sinned.  So let us come boldly to HIM and find grace to help us in our times of need." 

Listen, JESUS isn't shocked when you are tempted, when you struggle with a temptation.  HE's not shocked, HE doesn't think less of you. 

You can never wake up in the morning and say, “Is GOD going to love me less today?”   No HE's not.  Why?  Because HE's been there. 

When you go through a weakness and a problem you want to be with somebody who understands where you've been or what you're going through.  When JESUS came to earth, the Bible says, HE was tempted at every point the same way we are.  So when you come and say, "GOD, I'm struggling in this area."  HE doesn't say, "Just shape up!"  He's not a drill sergeant.  When you're struggling with a temptation or weakness in your life JESUS says, "I've been there.  I know what you're talking about.  Remember I was a human being too.  I understand perfectly well."  Because HE understands our weaknesses HE's kind.

It's not a sin to be tempted.  It's a sin to give into temptation.  JESUS was tempted, but HE never gave in.

What does this have to say about how we should be kind to other people?

Galatians 6:1-2 (LB), "If someone is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help him back onto the right path, remembering that the next time it might be one of you who is in the wrong.  Share each other's troubles and problems."

Here's the first way to be kind be gentle not judgmental.  When people are having a tough time, dealing with issues, having problems and they've got weaknesses and are being tempted, you be gentle with them.  Why?  Because GOD is gentle and kind with you. HE's understanding of your weaknesses and you're to be understanding of the weaknesses of others.  That's kindness.

Just a thought from the front porch…