Sunday, January 29, 2023

Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Hebrews 4

Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16

I continue my study of Hebrews, assisted by the commentary Christ Centered Exposition: Exalting Jesus in Hebrews. I maintain my focus Hebrews 4:14-16, as I move on to what the commentary describes as the third division "Boldly Approaching the Throne of Grace," which looks at Hebrews 4:16. The commentary focuses on how this verse builds primarily on the previous verse - v15 where we read how Believers have a Great High Priest - Jesus - who is able to sympathize "with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin."  These two attributes of God describe how Jesus is both fully God and fully man (human) - Jesus is both sinless, perfect and holy as God, and at the same as the incarnate Son, He experienced every (text says "in every respect" temptation humanity experiences.  Unfortunately, all of us continue to experience sin and weakness (Romans 3:23, 1 John 1:8).  The Good News of Jesus of Christ is that we DO have a great High Priest who allows us anytime to approach Him in our time of need.  The commentary refers us to 1 John 1:9, where states this as a promise that God will always be there for us: "[i]f we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."  Approach God boldly and with confidence!

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My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are a great God who loves me and who I can approach boldly and with confidence knowing You will be there and will help me in my time of need!  Thank You Jesus.  I am not deserving of such grace and help.  My sin is great and it continues....daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me turn from such sin and turn towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.