Hebrews chapter 4 verses 14-16 (NIV)
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.
It was the last verse in this portion which particularly struck me today. Because of the ministry of our High priest, Jesus, we read that we can approach the throne of God with confidence. Perhaps for many of us, we find that easier to do when all is going well with us, but may miss the lesson taught by Paul in verse 16 of this chapter. We can and should approach the throne of grace when we need help most in our time of need. Perhaps this is the very time that we find it hardest to do so, particularly if the cause of our difficulties are of our own making, through sin and disobedience, and yet that’s when God is able to show us His grace and mercy. We are not barred from His presence providing we come humbly and with repentant hearts. Praise God that the last thing He wants is for us to stay away.
Dear Lord,
Thank You for this reminder of the grace and mercy that is available to us because of the work that Jesus has done. My heart is full of gratitude and thanks. Amen.