Judge and Mediator

26. November 2017 Hebrews 0

Text: Hebrews 4:12-16

Theme: God is both the one who judges us and the one who intercedes for us.

Key verses: 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. 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. Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 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. 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 (v. 12-16).

What God said to me: Son, this is as clear as I can make it for you. No explanation needs to be included here. Either you believe what this says or you don’t. Either you shake with fear before me and bow in surrender and gratefulness, or you walk away and continue to live as if I don’t see your every move and know your every thought. What part of “you must give an account” do you not understand? In this passage I offer my servants both a reason to fear me and an opportunity to approach me. You can live your life in fear of me from a distance, or you can come boldly to my throne in faith to receive mercy and grace. I love you, Dwayne, as I love all of my children. Jesus, your high priest, paid the ultimate price by dying on the cross for you. He took your place. Mercy and grace are now yours to be claimed and enjoyed.  Rather than live in dread of future judgment and in failure, you can walk in forgiveness and in power. In my presence through my grace and strength, you can experience victory over sin, just as my Son did. Don’t settle for sin and selfishness. Don’t allow your flesh to rule you. Let your healthy fear of my accountability drive you into my arms and before my awesome throne of grace. Abide there. Thrive there. There is never a time you are not in need of my mercy and grace in your life. Therefore, make a daily habit of coming boldly to my throne. You are my dear one whom I love. Rest assured I will always accept you and help you.

What I said to God: Thank You, precious and holy and faithful and forgiving Lord. You are the Creator God, the Maker of heaven and earth. You are almighty and majestic. You are the Holy One of Israel and the Alpha and Omega, Beginning and the End. You see the depths of my sin and you love me the same. How measureless is Your love; how unfathomable are Your ways. Thank You for speaking to my heart this morning so clearly and powerfully. I am undone, and I live among a people who are unclean and in need of You. Please help me be intentional today to look for someone I can share Your light with. Help me not only come boldly to you, but empower me to be bold in going to those who need You so desperately.