Pastor Leon’s SOAP: Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer

July 5: Hosea 2-5; Hebrews 2

Scripture: Hebrews (NIV) 2:18 For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.

Observation: Love demanded that He help us; holiness demanded that the help come from one who had personal experience in overcoming temptation. God is so HOLY that love cannot be allowed a short cut to help the one loved. But God is so LOVING that he was willing to do what holiness required. It is amazing!

Because Jesus suffered through times of temptation when he was living as a man here on earth, he is able to help those who are being tempted now. Jesus understands our trials not because someone told him about them, not because he read about them, not because he overheard someone talking about them, but because he experienced them! He has been here; He has done that; and He gives more than a tee-shirt!

Application: Jesus can help me because He has experience dealing with the devil; he knows how to defeat Satan. Jesus can help me because He has experience dealing with the weaknesses and limitations of being human; he knows we cannot rely on the flesh so he gives us His Holy Spirit. Jesus can help me because He is finished dealing with his own trials; Satan cannot distract Him from helping me. Praise the Lord!

Prayer: Lord, You willingly paid the price holiness demanded when your love required that you help me. Thank you! You are all I need! Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!