“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.”

Hebrews 4:14–16

The above text introduces Hebrews 5–10 and explains some implications from understanding Jesus as our Great High Priest. Because he shares our human nature and was tempted in every way as we are – and more, since he did not sin – he can sympathize with our weakness. This gives us encouragement to approach God’s throne of grace in prayer and receive mercy and grace in our time of need, especially when we are tempted to loosen our hold on our faith. God’s presence is freely open to us at any time. Our confidence to approach God comes from having a Great High Priest who understands our weakness and appears in the presence of God on our behalf.

APPLY

We approach God in prayer not only for ourselves, but also for others. Spend some time praying for those you know who need God’s mercy and grace today.

CLOSING PRAYER

Father in heaven, no matter how many times I come to you for forgiveness, you lovingly welcome me into your presence. As I thank you for the grace and mercy that is mine because of Jesus, I lift up those in need of it today.

(Edited from Encounter with God)