Jesus Can Relate

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March 31
Hebrews 4:14–16

“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. 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.”

Illustration by Gustave Doré

Prayer is one of the most foundational disciplines and principles of the Christian life. Although we know that we should pray and need to pray, we can often be intimidated and insecure in our prayers. Thoughts come across our mind that God is distant from us or that God is too big and busy to listen to our personal prayers. Does God really pay attention and take note of our needs? Can he really relate to our situation? In this text, the author of Hebrews shares some great encouragement and insight—God is not far from us, but he is very near. Jesus was fully God, yet fully man. Because of this truth, we can be assured that Jesus had experiences, struggles, and situations in life, just like we do. In fact, in Matthew 26:36–46, Jesus earnestly prays to God the Father as he was approaching his death: “My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done.” Jesus did not necessarily like his circumstances, or even want to walk through it, but he knew that it had to be done, and he sought out God to be his refuge in time of need.

Throughout the Easter season, we regularly reflect and focus on the risen Savior, the one who conquered sin, death, and hell. We SHOULD and we MUST focus on this truth. Jesus is alive and not dead, which gives us hope for the present and the future, but let’s not forget the journey that Jesus took in order to get to the point of resurrection. Jesus walked through trials and suffered, just like we do, but to an even greater degree. He kept his eye on the prize, but in order to do so, he had to pray and depend on his Father, and his Father understood. Jesus understands too, and he desires for us to honestly, and transparently cry out to him! Do not buy the lie of the Enemy that God is too distant. He longs to hear from his children and comfort them in time of need.

Reflection

  1. What lies do you need to destroy in your life in order to cling to the truth that Jesus can relate to you?
  2. What is something in your life right now that you need to give to the Lord but have had difficulty doing so?
  3. Spend some time prayer journaling, writing down some of these misconceptions and barriers between you and the Lord in your prayer life, allowing him to draw near to you and help.