Hebrews 4:14–16 14 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.
We are followers of Jesus on earth, commissioned by His authority in heaven and on earth, to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing and teaching them the commands of Christ. The global enormity of this task is overwhelming. We also face the reality of our limitations as humans, who are hampered by a variety of weaknesses (e.g. fear of man, ignorance of all the answers, and limited skillset, to name a few). Add to this that our audience is usually far from friendly and welcoming. In fact, unbelievers, and even professing believers, can be completely indifferent, rude, or hostile.
So, we’re on earth, and our Lord and Savior is at the righthand of the Father in heaven. The perceived spacial distance from our Lord can cause us to feel alone, if not abandoned. Our perception of our weak and vulnerable state, combined with the need to eke out a living, can cause us to feel like rookies, if not failures, incapable of being effective representatives of our Lord on His earth. Being aware of these weaknesses generates discouragement, disgust, and eventually numbness. What are we to do?
One answer is to read and apply the truths of Hebrews 4:14-16. Jesus is our great high priest who represents us to the Father. We confess that Jesus is our Savior and Lord, and we need to live like we believe it. Because Jesus walked His earth in the flesh, He fully understands our limitations and weaknesses. Not only does He understand them, but He also consistently works to help us overcome them. We are not alone or abandoned. Jesus is our ever-present help in every time of need. His grace for us does not overlook our problems but works to transform and strengthen us to be faithful in fulfilling His commission for us on earth with joyful obedience.
Take heart, child of God. The grace of the Lord is sufficient for all your needs and weaknesses!
