I lied when I prayed. I didn’t mean to; I was repeating a biblical idea so of course, I agreed with it. At least I thought I did. But I caught myself parroting words that conflicted with (challenged?) my assumptions.
What did I say?
“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” – Hebrews 4:16
It’s always good to quote Scripture when you’re praying because God agrees with His own Word. You might vacillate how the Lord feels about your request, but Bible verses? They’re safe!
Also, I was getting started in my prayer time, and my mind wasn’t engaged. Rehearsing Scripture–or at least biblical ideas and themes–quiets the soul and directs the mind.
So I was telling God that I was approaching His throne of grace and mercy when it struck me–that’s not what I imagine! I’ve never been around royalty, but I associate a throne with power. A king rules, a queen governs. Thrones represent authority, especially the kind that’s difficult to resist.
But this verse in Hebrews relates God’s throne to grace and mercy. It skips over power and authority. This is wonderful but odd news.
Why emphasize grace and mercy? Look at it this way. The throne represents God’s might, power, and ability. The Lord our God can do anything!
But will He? Does He care about you and me? When we’re going through situations that try our patience and wear us down, we can remind ourselves that the Lord is able. He has the power. What He declares will happen.
Will we trust Him? How do we know that He loves us and wants to rescue us?
The previous verses provide the answer.
“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are–yet he did not sin.” – Hebrews 4:14-15
Through Jesus we have access to the power and goodness of God. Christ gives us blessings we don’t deserve–that’s grace. And He delivers us from punishments we merit–that’s mercy.
So when we approach God’s throne in prayer, we will receive all the help we need because of what Jesus has done for us. When we’re weak, He strengthens us. When we’re tempted, Christ reinforces us. And should we fail, He offers forgiveness through His sacrifice on the cross.
The way to the heavenly throne is open. Follow Jesus and He’ll lead you there. And in the presence of God, you’ll experience His power and His love.
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