Thursday, November 2

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2017

Hebrews 4:12-16

12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. 13 Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

14 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven,[f] Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 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. 16 Let us then 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.

The Book of Hebrews points out the superiority of Jesus Christ and His fulfillment of the Old Testament precedent of the sacrificial system.  While the blood of goats and sheep may have atoned for specific sin, it could not take it away.  The system begged for a Great High Priest Who could offer Himself rather than temporary sacrifices.

Hebrews holds two concepts in contrast:  holiness and grace.  God's holiness comes into full display as we consider the sacrificial system.  There is no forgiveness without the shedding of blood. (Hebrews 9:22)  This reality—made most evident through God's choosing to bring salvation through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ—highlights the gravity of sin and its offensiveness in the sight of a holy God.  We find ourselves individually and collectively in grave trouble if we underestimate God's holiness and reject His authority in our lives.  Sin's pleasure are merely temporary, but the pain endures.  The Word of God clarifies God's promises and judges our thoughts and attitudes; it sharpens our focus on life's true priorities:  loving God, loving people, and making disciples.

Despite our weaknesses, our Great High Priest empathizes with us and gives us grace.  While completely holy and perfect, the Lord Jesus experienced the pains, hungers, and slights that this world offers.  He has walked in our shoes and loves us, knowing our struggles.  He allows us to approach God's throne of grace with confidence!

As you reflect on the holiness of God, the sharp piercing of the Word, and the readiness of God's grace, doesn't it bring forth an attitude of thanksgiving?  Praise God that He would desire a relationship with us and have made every effort to bring the rest that He creates.

Lord God, thank You for providing a path to a loving relationship with You.  Thank You that Your Word gives us clear evidence of Your real promises, Your holiness, and Your abundant grace.  Help us to walk faithfully with You today and to rejoice in the blessed gift of knowing You and receiving Your love that we may share with others.  In Jesus's Name, amen.