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He Sympathizes

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
Hebrews 4:15-16

Christ became our Priest by the sacrifice of Himself on the cross. He is our go-between with God. His obedience and suffering were so perfect that God did not turn Him away. Therefore, if we go to God through Him, God will not turn us away either.

But it gets even better. On the way to the cross for thirty years, Christ was tempted like every human is tempted. True, He never sinned. But wise people have pointed out that this means His temptations were stronger than ours, not weaker. If a person gives in to temptation, it never reaches its fullest and longest assault. Jesus endured the full pressure to the end and never caved. He knows what it is to be tempted with full force.

Therefore, the Bible says He is able “to sympathize with our weaknesses” (Hebrews 4:15). This is amazing. The risen Son of God in heaven at God’s right hand with all authority over the universe feels what we feel when we come to Him in sorrow or pain – or cornered with the promises of sinful pleasure. He feels with us, not against us. He knows our cry. He tasted our struggles. He bids us come with confidence.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, You know all there is to know about me and yet You still love me. I thank You that I can approach You with confidence because of my high priest Jesus Christ. You are there in my times of need with Your Mercy and Grace. Empower me to share Your love, Your Mercy and Your Grace with those around me in their time of need so they may also know Jesus. I pray this in Jesus’ Name. Amen