Hebrews__4
Scripture - What stood out?
Hebrews 4:15 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.
Observation - What does it say?
Chapter four of the book of Hebrews is the continuation and conclusion of chapter three. The author continues the train of thought centered around “entering God’s rest.”
Understanding - What does it mean?
Does not the thought of entering God’s rest sound amazing? If you picture God kinda sorta the way I do (as a perfect loving Being) by default the resting place of such a Being naturally makes me yearn to be there with Him. I probably could write a very long journal about chapters three and four, but I will spare you! Essentially, the author urges us to seek to enter God’s rest.
I spend a lot of time dwelling on two things: that God is amazing and that I am not. One of my greatest struggles as I walk with God is to reconcile those two beliefs. I think it is easy for me to dismiss the above verse because I have heard much about how Jesus never sinned. But God reminds me, he is able to empathize with me. He was tempted in every way. Just like I am. Just like we all are.
In verse 14 Jesus is named as our high priest in heaven. And in verse 16 we are encouraged to “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.”
And this is the implication - Jesus loves me.
Jesus loves you.
Life Application - How can I apply this to my life today?
As our high priest in heaven, Jesus has gone before God and he is lobbying on all of our behalves. As I remind myself of this, my prayer for myself is for the ability to approach Your throne of grace with confidence. Jesus has gone before me. So I am just following His lead.
Grant me confidence Lord, so that I am able to approach You. So that I may be able to encourage others to do the same. And one day, may we all be able - to enter into Your rest.
In the name of Jesus, amen.
-kenneth lee