Jesus Is Our Sympathizer | Morning Routine Daily Devotional for March 28

Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 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. – Hebrews 4:14-16 ESV

The book of Hebrews was written to Jewish Christians that were wavering in their faith in Jesus. Many times, the author calls them to stand firm despite outside pressures. Since they were of Jewish heritage, Hebrews contains many Old Testament references to help them understand the truths of Jesus. In today’s passage, the author associates Jesus with the high priest of Israel. The high priest held the greatest responsibilities of all the priests in the Old Testament. Only the high priest was allowed to enter the Holy of Holies, where the presence of God dwelt. 

Jesus is the believers’ perfect high priest. The sacrifice He offers brings about the atonement for our sins. As a result, we are confident that we will experience God’s presence for all eternity. But He is with us now! Jesus is a high priest that can sympathize with us, for He was also tempted by the devil during His life on Earth. Since our high priest understands our temptation, we can confidently commune with Him, knowing “we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

Be comforted today because we are made righteous because of Jesus! The good news is that His grace is gifted freely to believers. Rest easy, knowing that our high priest is reliable and sympathizes with you in your weakness.