Grace and Mercy

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Scripture: Hebrews 4:14-16 (ESV)

14 Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 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.

Devotion:

            As we navigate this world with all its trials and tribulations the words above give us great comfort and strength to face our challenges whatever they may be. In them we learn that we have Jesus for a priest who intercedes on our behalf in heaven. Therefore, we must grab on to and hold on to him that we may receive help at all times.

            Jesus is our special high priest because while he was with us here on earth he was tempted in every way. He suffered the same physical weaknesses that we do. He had the same aches and pains but met them all without sinning. Unlike us he was able to overcome everything that the world, the flesh, and the devil were able to throw at him and he did not sin.

            So then, we can have assurance that whatever trial or temptation we are going through he will be with us to comfort and help us. We will encounter no need so great that Jesus is not able to meet our need if we will ask him. Jesus delights in meeting our needs so we should not hesitate to ask him for whatever we need. We know that he will be there to bear our burdens and calm our fears.

            In this season of lent, let us meditate on how God saved us through Jesus and his suffering and death on the cross. We will not likely suffer anything near what Jesus went through, so we can know that Jesus will understand whatever pain and heartache we may suffer. Jesus will walk with us even if we tread the valley of the shadow of death. He can be relied upon to meet our deepest and most profound needs. Let us praise God for providing his son Jesus to be our savior and ask him to meet us in our moment of need.

Prayer:

            Lord, we lift your name on high. You have provided a way of salvation for us in our trials and temptations here on the earth. May we give you all the glory and honor due you at all times and in all circumstances. We are grateful that you have provided for us such a wonderful gift. We ask you to be with us as we walk daily in the way you have mapped out for us to walk. Help us to trust in you at all times and in all circumstances. Amen. 

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