“For we do not have a High Priest who is unable to sympathize and understand our weaknesses and temptations, but One who has been tempted [knowing exactly how it feels to be human] in every respect as we are, yet without [committing any] sin. Therefore, let us [with privilege] approach the throne of grace [that is, the throne of God’s gracious favor] with confidence and without fear, so that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find [His amazing] grace to help in time of need [an appropriate blessing, coming just at the right moment].” (Hebrews 4:15-16 The Amplified Bible)
I love this passage! It lets us know that the Savior knows all about our struggles. It informs us that Jesus was tempted in all areas that man is tempted, but He passed the testing and never sinned. It lets me know, since Jesus is our High Priest, we can really call Him up, realizing that He is on the mainline. We are reminded of God’s grace and mercy in this passage. We are informed that we can draw near to God with confidence.
There is a little more that I want you to recognize this morning. First, not to encourage you to sin, I want you to know that you and me fit into the category that the Scriptures refer to when it says, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” referring to times when we don’t do so well in the face of temptations that are particular, and personally a challenge to us. We all have failings.
What should we do when we experience a failing? We should pray. Yes, we do not fall down, but we have failures, so we need to exercise our privilege called prayer. As you can tell from the passage above, when we pray, we can find grace to help in our time of need! When we pray, we can secure an appropriate blessing, at just the right moment.
Therefore, start the week with prayer. Go throughout this week with prayer. It is true what we have heard, “Prayer changes things!” If it does not change our predicament or change the pressure we face as we go through a tough time, prayer will change us. In regard to our failures or failings, be instant in prayer. Pray! This was your Monday Short! Respond to it, react to it, realize the benefit of prayer, and renew your upright walk with the Lord! Have a great Monday! Be blessed!
“If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just [true to His own nature and promises] and will forgive our sins and cleanse us continually from all unrighteousness [our wrongdoing, everything not in conformity with His will and purpose].” (I John 1:9 The Amplified Bible)
Still committed to the climb,
Mark L. King