Read: Hebrews 4:14-16
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace. (v. 16)
Recently I was talking with a friend and the name of a certain individual came up. I had heard of this person but didn’t really know him. “What’s he like?” I asked. My friend responded, “Oh, he would give you the shirt off his back.”
What made my friend speak in that way about that person? He knew the man well, had experienced his generosity, and as a result, had complete trust and confidence in him.
The same thought comes through about prayer in our Bible reading today. The writer of Hebrews knew Jesus. He knew what he was like—a great high priest and mediator—Son of God and at the same time human. Like us in all things, “yet without sin”: able “to sympathize with our weakness” (v. 15). Just the kind of Savior that we need! Someone we can have confidence in, someone we can come to boldly to “find grace to help in time of need” (v. 16).
Boldly—what a great way to describe how we should pray! It reminds me of my granddaughter. When she comes to our house for a visit, she makes a beeline for me, nearly knocking me down, arms open wide ready to give me a big hug. She knows I will open my arms to her with a big hug of my own. I love those encounters. I think God loves it too when we approach him that way—with confidence and boldness.
As you pray, do so with confidence and boldness.
About the Author
Rev. John C. Koedyker is an ordained minister in the Reformed Church in America. He has served as a missionary to Japan as well as pastor of several churches in Iowa and Michigan. Until recently he served Muskegon Classis as its Stated Clerk for 18 years. He resides in Grand Haven, Michigan.
