November 4, 2024 - Hebrews 3-4

What encouragement we have!  “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.  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.  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” (4:14-16).  Think about it!  The Son of God took on flesh.  He grew weary.  He was tempted.  He grew hungry.  He wept.   Enemies surrounded him and eventually killed him.  He is able to sympathize with us.  He knows what it is like to be human.  And, though he never sinned, he learned what it was to suffer and struggle in this world.  And so, knowing that he knows and understands us, we know that he will always have an open ear and will hear our groanings and prayers.  He is no stranger to what it is to be human.  He has walked in our shoes.

Have we trials and temptations?

Is there trouble anywhere?

We should never be discouraged;

take it to the Lord in prayer!

Can we find a friend so faithful

who will all our sorrows share?

Jesus knows our every weakness;

take it to the Lord in prayer!   -- Joseph Medlicott Scriven (1855)