HOW JESUS CHRIST CAN HELP US

"Help at the Right Time"

What can we do, though, when confronted with problems that we feel are greater than we can handle-serious illnesses, the crushing burden of guilt, overwhelming discouragement, and depression?  We can make use of the very provision that Jesus himself regularly relied on-the precious privilege of prayer.  For example, on the night before he gave his life for us,  "he continued praying more earnestly; and his sweat became as drops of blood falling to the ground."  (Luke 22:44) Yes, Jesus knows how it feels to pray to God with great intensity.  He  "offered up supplications and also petitions to the One who was able to save him out of death, with strong outcries and tears, and he was favorably heard for his godly fear." -Hebrews 5:7.

Jesus knows how much it means to humans to be "favorably heard" and strenghtened.  (Luke 22:43)  Furthermore, he promised:  "If you ask the Father for anything he will give it to you in my name. . .Ask and you will receive, that your joy may be made full."  (John 16:23:, 24)  Hence,m we can petition God with confidence that he will allow his Son to apply his authority and the value of his ransom sacrifice in our behalf. -Matthew 28:18.

We can be sure that in his heavenly capacity, Jesus will provide the right kind of help at the proper time.  For example, if we have committed a sin that we sincerely regret, we can draw comfort from the assurance that "we have a helper with the Father, Jesus Christ, a righteous one."  (1 John 2:1, 2)  Our Helper and Comforter in heaven will plead for  us so that our prayers in his name and in harmony with the Scriptures will be answered. -John 14:13, 14; 1 John 5:14, 15.

Next time: Showing Appreciation for Christ's Help

Watchtower, 2000