“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

Can you think of the last time that you heard good news that extremely excited you? Perhaps you received good news of a raise at work, or that you got the promotion you were looking for, or maybe even good news of an addition to your family! That is how this passage of Scripture ought to hit each of us…it is GREAT NEWS!

The author of Hebrews, in these three short verses, opens our eyes to see just how “great” Jesus Christ, our High Priest, really is. Yesterday in our devotion we looked at verse 14 and reflected on the “supremacy” of Christ. He is a High Priest who has made the perfect sacrifice, has passed through the heavens, and is seated at the right hand of God the Father. No earthly high priest could ever accomplish that because of his own sinfulness. His supremacy is good news.

But let’s look more carefully at verse 15. As we do, let’s notice the fact that we have a High Priest who “sympathizes” with our weaknesses. The Scripture says, “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.” The word “sympathize” in the original language means, “to be affected with the same feeling as another”.

Our journey through life can be challenging and certainly difficult at times. There may be seasons of great temptation, loneliness, and even rejection. There may be times of great suffering and loss. Yet in the midst of those difficult seasons of our lives there is NEVER a moment when Jesus cannot relate and sympathize with what we are going through. He experienced temptation, loss, loneliness, suffering, and rejection…all without sinning. And as we go through those same crossroads in our lives we can count on Him being there for us as well as perfectly understanding what it is that we are going through.

What hardships are you experiencing today? What trial is God allowing you to go through? Pause and spend some time reflecting on how Christ persevered, without sin, through His most difficult moments. Thank Him for never allowing you to go through these seasons alone!

Written By Will Toburen