Tonight's Word 🌱

"For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.

Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace to help in time of need." - Hebrews 4: 15-16

Have you ever been through a circumstance in your life where you have tried sharing and talking to someone about your struggle, but they just don't seem to get it? It could very well be that they have a difficulty in empathizing with you because they either haven't been through a similar circumstance, or they experience and respond to something differently than you. However, when you do find someone who not only can relate, but is capable of empathizing with you also, it is a freeing experience, being able to be yourself and speak freely, without fear of being judged or misunderstood.

Tonight, we are reminded that Jesus, who is our High Priest, is also one who can be that one true confidante. The Word says that He can sympathize with many if not all of our struggles, because He too lived on this earth, and lived the human experience. He experienced poverty, stigma, loss, grief, betrayal, being misunderstood, accusations, injustice, being denied, being tested, provocation, rejection, anger, pain, and even death. He is the same One we are invited to come with all our trials and human weaknesses and pour out to Him from our heart. This is an invitation that echoes throughout eternity, even to you and me today. 

"Come as you are, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." - Matthew 11:28

Jesus calls humbly out to us to approach confidently, boldly, because His throne of grace was set up just for us. As a parent who wants their child to freely come to them with their wants, needs, and thoughts, so does our High Priest want for us too. Will we make use of the extended hand and listening and understanding ear today?

Prayer: Dear Father, thank You for Your Word, and for sharing with us, how much You want us to come to come to You with everything. Because of sin and separation, we can sometimes feel ashamed or unworthy of Your love, but thank You. Just as you pursued Adam and Eve after they sinned, thank you for reminding us even today, that You love us, You understand us, and You will always have an extended hand, and a sympathizing ear for us. Your ultimate desire is that we as Your children, be drawn to You and be saved in your kingdom, and we want the same too. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Do listen to and be blessed by the following song that I found was pretty relevant to tonight's message. I heard it a few years ago, and it stayed with me. Be encouraged 🎧🙏🏽🙂

Come as you are [David Crowder]