Nobody understands me! ∙∙

Nobody understands me! ∙∙

We do not have a high priest incapable of sympathizing with our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. – Hebrews 4:15

Hebrews 2:17 Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then, he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people.

A Viral Moment of Empathy

On February 24, 2019, the internet was captivated by a heartwarming YouTube video. The video showcased an unusual moment of connection as a dog whimpered while watching the tragic death of Mufasa in Walt Disney’s The Lion King (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-p747h4HKw). The video quickly went viral, leaving many viewers to wonder—was this canine demonstrating genuine empathy? Could a dog truly feel such profound emotion?

Can Dogs Be Empathic?

The answer, remarkably, is yes! Dogs, like humans, can show empathy. But what exactly is an empath? The word empathy originates from the Greek term empatheia, combining en (in) and pathos (feeling). “Empathy refers to the ability to deeply connect with and understand the feelings or experiences of others.” Empathy is inner sympathy (Groos).

Empathy enables someone to see life from another’s perspective and to experience their emotions as though they were their own. It produces understanding and compassion, an innate ability that most of us possess. Amazingly, parapsychology even suggests that empathy can extend beyond natural bounds to a psychic level, allowing a person to sense the emotions and thoughts of others intuitively.

Notably, research claims that up to 98% of the population is capable of genuine empathy. The exceptions are narcissists, sociopaths, and psychopaths. Such individuals are often unable or unwilling to connect emotionally with others. Sadly, these individuals live in self-inflicted isolation, unable to experience the depth of connection that empathy brings. They are prisoners in a self-imposed jail. How terribly sad!

Dogs and Their Innate Sensitivity

Aaron McDonald, a canine behaviorist and dog trainer, sheds light on this remarkable trait in dogs. He explains that empathy in dogs reflects their innate concern for the well-being of others. “Dogs are like FBI profilers,” he notes. “They’re attuned to every sight, sound, and pattern in family life. They recognize what’s normal and become immediately concerned when something feels off.”

Dog owners often witness this firsthand. Dogs seem to care, to listen, and to understand our moods on a deeply instinctive level. They offer us comfort without asking for anything in return. While dogs may not be sentient creatures in the same way humans are, but their ability to sense and respond to emotions is undeniable.

Human Empaths

Empathy enables someone to see life from another’s perspective and to experience their emotions as though they were their own. It produces understanding and compassion, an innate ability that most of us possess. Amazingly, parapsychology even suggests that empathy can extend beyond natural bounds to a psychic level, allowing a person to sense the emotions and thoughts of others intuitively.

Notably, research claims that up to 98% of the population is capable of genuine empathy. The exceptions are narcissists, sociopaths, and psychopaths. Such individuals are often unable or unwilling to connect emotionally with others. Sadly, these individuals live in self-inflicted isolation, unable to experience the depth of connection that empathy brings. They are prisoners in a self-imposed jail. How terribly sad!

REFLECT & PRAY

Whenever you feel pain, joy, or the need to share your heart, remember this comforting truth. Jesus Christ is there for you, caring deeply, empathizing fully, and acting on your behalf.

Father, thank You for always being there for me. You truly understand me and know me. You feel what I feel. You can identify with what I experience and come to my aid in my time of need.

INSIGHT

Jesus Christ, the Ultimate Empath

While dogs can display empathy, they are limited in comparison to the ultimate empath, the Lord Jesus Christ. The Lord Jesus Christ is entirely empathic. How great is that? Jesus not only understands our emotions but shares in them completely. He feels our joy, our pain, and our sorrow. He knows our weaknesses and struggles, and He acts on our behalf.

How did the Lord Jesus Christ become an empath, fully understanding the depths of human emotion? By becoming truly human. He did not simply observe humanity from afar; He lived it, felt it, and experienced it firsthand. He faced every form of testing and temptation we experience yet remained without sin.

The author of Hebrews asserts, Hebrews 4:15: “For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.”

This shared experience makes Him approachable, relatable, and deeply understanding of the highs and lows we face in life. Again, the author of Hebrews observes, Hebrews 2:18: “Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested.”

Walking With Us Through Pain and Joy

Is it too much to imagine that when we feel sad, gloomy, and dejected, so does He? When we are exhilarated and enthusiastic, He shares our feelings. When we are joyful and energized, He rejoices with us.

Pause and reflect on this truth. The Lord Jesus Christ is there for you in your most profound moments of sadness and your greatest moments of joy. He doesn’t merely empathize from a distance; He is present, deeply caring, and fully invested in your life.

Empathy in the Body of Christ

Empathy among children of the King isn’t just emotional sensitivity; it’s a spiritual calling. When one member of the body of Christ suffers, the whole body shares in their pain. When another rejoices, everyone celebrates together. This divine design binds believers together in unity.

1 Corinthians 12:25–26 explains how this dynamic works within the body of Christ: “This makes for harmony among the members so that all the members care for each other. If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad.”

Because of this bond, no child of the Father should ever feel alone. Each of us has someone to turn to in times of joy or sorrow. And not only do we have fellow believers, but we also have the Lord Jesus, who perfectly understands and empathizes with every emotion we feel.

An Invitation to Come Boldly

When we come to Him, He doesn’t push us away. He doesn’t ignore or reject us. Instead, He invites, listens, consoles, and acts on our behalf. He has dreams and desires for every child of the King that He longs to see fulfilled.

The Lord Jesus Christ asserts, Matthew 11:28-30: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

The Lord Jesus Christ is the one who asks us to come. He wants us to come.

The Lord Jesus not only invites us to approach Him, but He encourages us to do so boldly and with confidence. Imagine that! The King of Kings asks us to come freely, without hesitation or fear.

The book of Hebrews explains, Hebrews 4:14-16: “Therefore since we have a great High Priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a High Priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet He did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

This idea stands in stark contrast to the ancient world. Back then, ordinary people couldn’t approach those in power. They were neither welcome nor permitted. No one dared to step into the presence of kings, high priests, or rulers without fear of rejection or even death. People were expected to grovel, defer, and present themselves with trembling fear.

Complete Access to the Throne of Grace

But through Christ, that narrative has been completely rewritten. In total contrast, “Every believer in Christ is invited, and is even encouraged, to ‘come boldly unto the throne of grace!’” (Wiersbe). Every child of the King is granted direct access to the throne of God, the Creator of the universe. The Greek word for “boldly” or “with confidence” is parresia, meaning “openness, freedom, and a lack of fear.” The red carpet is rolled out, and the Father welcomes us into His presence with joyful acceptance.

But there’s more.

In addition to access, children of the King have the freedom to speak their minds honestly and openly. We can pour out our hearts, share our struggles, vent our frustrations, and confess our fears. The Father already knows what’s in our hearts, so there’s no need to hide. Nothing takes him by surprise or off guard. He welcomes our transparency and authenticity without judgment or reproach.

A Place of Grace and Mercy

At the throne of grace, we don’t find condemnation or rejection. We find mercy and grace. The Lord Jesus Christ offers us rest for our souls, and the Father extends a listening ear and an open heart. This is where we experience the freedom of true catharsis and healing.

The Lord Jesus Christ is not just our Savior; He is our Advocate, our Companion, and our greatest source of comfort. He reminds us that we are never alone and that, no matter what we face, we can boldly enter the Father’s presence and find the help we need when we need it most.

What an incredible gift to be understood, loved, and always welcome in His presence.

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© Dr. H 2025