For God’s wrath is revealed against all godlessness and unrighteousness of people who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth, since what can be known about God is evident among them. For his invisible attributes, that is his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen since the creation of the world, being understood through what he has made. As a result, people are without excuses. Romans 1:18-20

There was a time in my life when I thought Jesus would just understand my sin. I justified my behavior by whining about the problems I had been through. Once I surrendered to Christ, I began to understand that Jesus understands tough times. He’s been through enough of them Himself.

Jesus understands rejection. He was rejected by His own people. They did not understand He was the Messiah sent to save them from their sin. Peter denied Him three times. He understands betrayal at the hands of someone close. Judas betrayed Him.

He understands temptation. The devil tempted Him. He understands entrapment. There were numerous times when the Pharisees asked questions trying to use His teachings against Him.

He suffered heartbreak when His friends Mary and Martha were hurting after their brother, Lazarus, died.

He suffered physical pain when he was flogged and nailed to the cross.

We must remember Jesus was fully man. He experienced the same physical pain and emotional pain we do. He was also fully God. He did not have to endure what He went through. He could have called the angels down to remove Him from that cross, but He died there for you and me. He came to conquer sin and death so we might live.

My friend, when we think Jesus understands and will overlook our sins, we are making a huge mistake. We are taking a risk that is not worth taking. Our Scripture passage says God’s wrath is revealed against all godlessness and unrighteousness. That means our sin will bring on His wrath.

He won’t just understand and overlook our godlessness or our unrighteousness. If we don’t repent and turn away from our sins, we will experience God’s wrath. Romans 2:5 says because of your hardened and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath for yourself in the day of wrath when God’s righteous judgment is revealed. Verse 6 says He will repay each one according to his works.

Jesus understands temptation. He understands heartache. He understands both physical and emotional pain. He doesn’t understand our sin or our unrighteous behavior. He doesn’t understand our rejection of His goodness.

In Romans 2:4 Paul says, “Or do you despise the riches of his kindness, restraint, and patience, not recognizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?” Don’t mistake His kindness for weakness. Don’t mistake His patience for His acceptance of your sin. These would be grave mistakes.

Romans 1:21-22 tells us that though they knew God, they did not glorify Him or show gratitude and their thinking became worthless. Their senseless hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise they became fools.

There will come a day when it’s simply too late. Sadly, I believe this Scripture tells us if we reject Him long enough, He will simply give us over to our own desires. It says this very thing in Romans 1:24. When He does this, we won’t understand or appreciate good, Biblical teaching and sound doctrine.

My friend, if you are going through hard times, Jesus certainly understands this. He is there for you. In Isaiah 41:10 He says, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with My righteous right hand.”

He doesn’t understand blasphemy. He doesn’t understand rejection. He doesn’t understand why we won’t simply come to Him and be saved. He will not give us a free pass to sin. He will not overlook our sins.

Jesus came to set an example for us. We are to do our best to follow that example. He will hold on to us, He will help us. We only have to submit and surrender to Him.

Jesus is loving and kind and patient, but we serve a God who is jealous. We serve a God who will reveal His wrath if we don’t repent. Turn to Him today, before it’s too late.

Have a great day!