I’m sandwiching the last message that is rightly mean to inflict a healthy amount of respect and fear in us, before God, with two messages that remind us that we are not alone in our daily battles.  This is intentional, and ordained, as it also follows the writing in Hebrews.

Hebrews 4:14-16 – “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. ¹⁵ 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. ¹⁶ 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.”

Each of us struggles in life.  We struggle with circumstances outside of our control, and we struggle with indwelling sin in our own hearts.  The most tragic thinking of a Christian is that they can sin their way apart from God, or that they feel like they cannot come to God because of present sin in their life.  You’re missing the whole point of Christianity and the gospel.  I say this as a reminder, because I have to remind myself of these gospel truths as much as anyone.

Jesus came to save sinners.  Not righteous people, but jacked up sinners just like you and just like me.  As you run this race with God, there are going to be times where you are running better than others, times where you are walking in greater freedom and joy in your relationship with God, and times where you are not.  In every circumstance we have an advocate in Jesus.  He is our hope, our salvation, and He intercedes with us not as sinners, but as those who He has redeemed by His blood.  If you believe on Christ – if you love Him and want to follow His will, He is your grace and mercy daily.  What sin in your life can compare to the blood of Christ?  What sin in your life did Jesus not overcome on the cross.  The grave is empty, the battle has been won, and Jesus sits, reigning in victory as we speak.

My exhortation is the same as Hebrews 4 states plainly above.  Let us with confidence, strong confidence in the finished work of Jesus, draw near to God seeking His grace and mercy, knowing that in Christ, we will always hear an answer of “Yes”.  Don’t allow yesterday to dictate the terms of today, but look to Jesus, run to Him, and find in Him all you need.

Grace and Peace,

Adam