Draw Near to His Throne

When using your smartphone’s mapping app, have you ever typed in a location and realized the ending location or routing options don’t seem right? So, with your instinct and confidence, you deviate from the mapping app’s suggestion, use your intuition (perhaps the Holy Spirit’s guidance) and end up in the correct location.

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 4:16 ESV

This verse is a powerful reminder that no matter what you are going through or where you are headed, you can always use the Holy Spirit’s guidance, approach God and find the mercy and grace you need to get through your challenges and end at the right destination.

When thinking about mercy, you might think about someone who has done something wrong and is asking for forgiveness. But mercy encapsulates more than just forgiveness and includes compassion and kindness, even when they are not deserved. One example of mercy is the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15. The son squandered all his inheritance and ended up living in poverty. When he returned home, his father didn’t scold or punish him (wow, what a dad). Instead, he welcomed him back with open arms and threw a big party to celebrate his return.

Mercy is so much more than forgiveness; it includes kindness and empathy.

Now, think larger. Mercy is only one component of grace, and grace is a much larger piece of God’s love. Grace is unmerited favor, something you receive even when you don’t deserve it. The Bible shares many examples of how Jesus didn’t condone sin but showed compassion and forgiveness.

When you confidently approach God’s throne of grace, you can receive both mercy and grace. You can’t earn either of these gifts. Jesus has made it possible for you to receive both with open arms. When you receive these gifts from the Lord, you are empowered to face whatever challenges you are experiencing and journey with strength and courage. 

Today’s One Thing

You are encouraged to approach God’s throne of grace with confidence. Whatever you are facing, know that God is there for you. He wants to offer you His mercy and grace and help you through whatever challenges and new experiences you are facing. Whether you need forgiveness, compassion or strength, know that God is ready and waiting to help you. So, take a step of faith, approach His throne and receive His gift of mercy and grace.

Go Deeper

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