Jesus Can RelateSample

Jesus Can Relate to Feeling Misunderstood

Do you ever feel misunderstood or unappreciated? Jesus can relate.

Everywhere Jesus went, people had mixed reactions—many of them unfortunate. He shared a message of hope, and leaders responded with hate. He shared good news, and some walked away confused. He invited everyone to a better way of life, only for most to abandon Him.

Critics, ordinary people, and even His close friends constantly misunderstood His message. As you read today’s passages, imagine how Jesus must have felt.

It can be tempting to quit when we feel misunderstood. And it can be tempting to compromise on our calling to fit in when we feel we’re on our own. But Jesus didn’t quit, and He didn’t compromise. How? How did He remain so consistent when He felt misunderstood?

First, Jesus expected to be misunderstood.

God calls us to live a unique way of life. It’s others-focused and often contradicts the wisdom of the world around us. So when we follow God’s call on our life, we can expect to be misunderstood.

Second, Jesus relied on His connection with His heavenly Father.

Jesus leaned on His relationship with the Father for encouragement. He often withdrew from the crowd to spend time with the One who loved Him unconditionally and always knew and understood Him.

Third, Jesus felt encouraged by progress.

Not everyone misunderstood Jesus. He got to see meaningful moments when people understood and appreciated His message. Those experiences reminded Him of God’s faithfulness.

Jesus did everything right, but people had all kinds of reactions. So when we’re misunderstood and feel alone, let’s follow Jesus in being faithful to our calling—whether it makes sense to the people around us or not.

The next time you work hard but your effort isn’t appreciated, remember that Jesus can relate. And the next time you know God’s called you to do something, but no one responds, remember, Jesus has been there. And He’s inviting you to continue pushing forward, making a difference, caring for others, and sharing truth.

There will be moments—and even seasons—when you feel misunderstood. When you feel those natural emotions, know that God can lead you through them. Not just because He’s God, but also because He’s been there.

Pray: Dear God, You know what it’s like to feel misunderstood. I ask that You would give me confidence when I feel alone and unappreciated. I know that You always give me a place to belong. In Jesus’ name, amen.