Daily Devotional | Draw Near

Most people’s idea of confidence is rooted in themselves. It is self- confidence. It is a can-do attitude, or at least a will-do mentality. The Christian’s confidence originates from a different place. We can confidently approach God’s throne of grace not because of anything we have done but because of what Christ has done for us (v. 16).

How do we know that our confidence is warranted? What right do we have to think that God will accept us? Scripture cuts through any self-deception to show us what we are really like. It “judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” and reveals what we have hidden from ourselves or are trying to hide from God (v. 12). When God’s Word has finished its work, it is clear that the grounds for our assurance do not lie in us.

We may confidently approach God’s throne because Jesus Christ is acting as our High Priest. Our passport into His presence is our faith in Him (v. 14). We do not have to fear that Christ will refuse us. We are coming to a High Priest who is able to “empathize with our weaknesses” (v. 15). To empathize (some versions translate the Greek word in this verse as sympathize) is to “feel with” someone. But the greatness of Christ is that He offers more than a shared feeling. Because Jesus was tempted in all points like us, yet has overcome, He can provide “mercy” and “grace to help” in our time of need (v. 16).

The secret to assurance in the Christian life is not self-confidence but Christ-confidence. Look outside yourself to the throne of God’s grace and put your trust in Jesus Christ. Dare to draw near, and you will find mercy, grace, and help. Jesus will receive you.

Go Deeper

What or who makes you confident? How do you feel when approaching God? What does this Scripture teach us about why we can draw near Him with confidence?

Pray with Us: Who do we turn to in times of trials? Merciful God, You are our hiding place and comfort. Thank You for an assurance in Hebrews 4 that we can come to Your throne with confidence, and our “passport” into Your presence is our faith in You.

BY Dr. John Koessler

John Koessler is Professor Emeritus of Applied Theology and Church Ministries at Moody Bible Institute. John authors the “Practical Theology” column for Today in the Word of which he is also a contributing writer and theological editor. An award-winning author, John’s newest title is When God is Silent: Let the Bible Teach You to Pray (Kirkdale). Prior to joining the Moody faculty, he served as a pastor of Valley Chapel in Green Valley, Illinois, for nine years. He and his wife, Jane, now enjoy living in a lakeside town in Michigan.