The Throne of Grace

“Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." — Hebrews 4:16 (NRSVUE)

As you travel through life, you meet many people. Some remain casual acquaintances. Others become trusted friends. A precious few truly understand you. They know your joys and struggles. They answer your calls, respond to your messages, and make time when you need them most. Their presence gives you confidence because you know they care.

Hebrews invites us to approach God with that kind of confidence, and even more. The author tells us to come before God's throne with boldness. Not hesitation. Not fear. Not uncertainty. Boldness.

What gives us such confidence?

The verses immediately before this remind us that Jesus is our great high priest, able to sympathize with our weaknesses. He is not distant from the human experience. He walked the dusty roads of Galilee. He attended weddings and funerals. He comforted the grieving and healed the sick. He experienced hunger, weariness, disappointment, temptation, and rejection. Though tempted as we are, he remained without sin.

When we come before God, we are not approaching a stranger who cannot understand our struggles. We are coming before the One who knows firsthand what it means to live in a fallen world. As one commentator notes, we are invited to come boldly, not because we have earned the right to stand before God, but because Jesus has opened the way. The throne before which we stand is not merely a throne of power. For those who belong to Christ, it is a throne of grace.

This boldness is not arrogance. It is confidence born of trust. It is the assurance that when we bring our fears, failures, temptations, and needs to God, we will not be turned away. We will find mercy for our past and grace for our present need.

Perhaps today you carry a burden that feels too heavy, a temptation that seems too strong, or a situation that leaves you uncertain about the future. Hebrews reminds us that we do not have to face these things alone. Because Jesus understands, we can come boldly. Because Jesus intercedes for us, we can come confidently. Because God's throne is a throne of grace, we can come right now.

The One who created you is also the One who walked among us. He understands. He welcomes you. And he is ready to help.

Gracious God, thank you that through Jesus Christ we may approach you with confidence. When we are weary, remind us that you understand. When we are tempted, strengthen us by your grace. When we are afraid, assure us of your mercy and love. Help us to come before you boldly, trusting that you hear our prayers and provide what we need in every season of life. Through Jesus Christ, our great high priest and Savior. Amen.

Grace & Peace, Pastor Tim