Hebrews 4:15-16 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tested in every way as we are, yet without sin. 16 Therefore let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us at the proper time. Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
I've read today's verses dozens of times and most often have focused on verse 16 in regards to "boldly approaching the throne of grace" in times of need. It is a good thing to remember and something that we should do. However, it is another one of those verses that begins with "therefore", so we need to look back and see what it is there fore. In this instance we don't have to go back very far. Verse 15 tells us of our high priest, Jesus who was tested in every way and was without sin.
The One who was without sin was willing to take on the punishment for our sin out of love for us. That is why can approach boldly. But what should that mean to us? We should approach God boldly from a heart that is committed to Him, realizing that He is in control. We should come with a contrite heart such as David's in Psalm 51, with a repentant heart that desires to follow Him more closely.
Those times that we approach boldly are often in times of trial and we have choices in them. Greg Laurie writes, "Here is your choice in life; you can become bitter or better. It is usually one or the other. When something bad happens, you can say, "I am mad at God. I am bitter with God." Okay. That is your choice. But you can also say "I am going to trust in God. I am going to cling to God. And you will become better as a result. It is really up to you."
The call, the challenge is to boldly approach the throne of grace, trusting that you will become better. Don't try to go it on your own, "take the mercy, accept the help." (The Message)
Hebrews 4:14-16The Message (MSG)
The High Priest Who Cried Out in Pain
14-16 Now that we know what we have—Jesus, this great High Priest with ready access to God—let's not let it slip through our fingers. We don't have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He's been through weakness and testing, experienced it all—all but the sin. So let's walk right up to him and get what he is so ready to give. Take the mercy, accept the help.
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