“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 4:15-16 ESV
The allure of temptation can sometimes be overwhelming.
Yielding may seem like the only plausible way out of a desperate situation. For example, you may be tempted to cheat on an exam you didn’t study for, or lie about personal struggles to avoid shame.
Yielding however, will not solve the core problem. It may provide some temporary reprieve and even a sense of pleasure (Heb 11:25), but it will not give you the character you so desperately desire to be able to do right, live right and be right.
In other words, yielding to sin will not give you ‘life’. In actual fact, it leads to death. “Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.” – James 1:15 (NKJV)
But thanks be to the Lord Jesus who is THE WAY out for all who call on Him:
• He gave His life as a sacrifice for our sins so that He can rescue us from this evil world we live in (Galatians 1:4)
• He “understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin” (Heb 4:15 NLT; Luke 4:1-13)
In light of what Christ has done for us as God’s children, we have the privilege to boldly approach His throne to receive mercy and find grace to help us through whatever affliction or temptation we may be facing.
‘Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, and having a High Priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.’ (Heb 10:19-23)
PRAYER: Lord, help me to not feel helpless and hopeless in moments of weakness or temptation. Help me to remember the great privilege I have as your child. I can freely approach your throne with confidence, knowing that grace and mercy is what I will surely find at your feet, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.