Walking a Mile in Another Man’s Shoes
"Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted." Hebrews 2:17-18 NKJV
I remember camping with my Uncle Keith once in Washington. Man it was beautiful up there. But it hurt. You see I was a young man from California and I didn’t have the proper attire for a camping trip. So I spent the four days in a borrowed pair of boots.
Every time I hear the old cliché about, "walking a mile in another man’s shoes," I can feel the blisters all over again. It was beautiful…but it hurt.
I think that we need to "experience" trials in order to understand what others go through. I don’t love or revel in all of my past mistakes, hurts and failings. But, I am amazed at how the Lord has used many of them to help me understand what others feel like. Those prior "experiences" makes us more compassionate, genuine, and understanding. It is beautiful to see the Lord working in those times.
It has been my observation that there is nothing that helps our hurting hearts as much as having someone there with us who understands completely how we feel. Those special people seem to be the only ones that can bring a thoughtful word of encouragement born out of experience. I thank God for the many that have been there for me in tough times. "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!" (Romans 10:15 NKJV)
Maybe you think no one could ever understand what you are currently going through. Maybe your situation is unique to most men or women. It may be hard to find someone in your circle of friends that understands completely. But, take heart, Jesus has experienced all that we ever could, as the text above states.
How beautiful are the nail pierced feet of our Savior Jesus Christ! He came to earth … He became a man… He was tempted (or tried) in all things… He died on Calvary’s cross… He has experienced all of the worst this life can throw at you and I. Thus He is able to aid each and every one of us through any situation we face.
Brother or Sister Jesus has walked in your shoes. He understands and is more than able to bring beauty out of your hurt.
David Anderson, Senior Pastor
Calvary Chapel Mt. Pleasant