A sympathetic high priest

Hebrews 4:15 For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. Today’s verse should encourage us to hold fast to what we believe about Jesus. The author had just called his readers to “hold fast our confession.” In this verse he told them why. Jesus has been tempted in all things as we are, and yet He did not sin. Therefore, He feels our weaknesses, which implies, He knows how to help us. The author had already made this point about Jesus in 2:17-18. “Therefore, He had to be made like His brethren in all things, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For since He Himself was tempted in that which He has suffered, He is able to come to the aid of those who are tempted.” This should encourage us today to not harden our hearts when difficult things happen or when someone hurts or disappoints us. Instead, let us receive whatever happens as from God, through His word, as He sits on the throne in heaven. May we hold firmly to the reality of His life dwelling within us, and trust and love with Him, when we feel weak. No doubt about it, we are going to feel our weakness—the weakness of the flesh—brought out by the circumstances. We will face temptations to be unbelieving, hard, reactionary, bitter, or revengeful. That can happen when we feel weak. Today, be encouraged to look to Jesus. Instead of reacting in weakness, let the weakness drive you to Jesus and His love. Drink satisfyingly from Him as your well of delight, peace, joy, and strength. Run to Him because you know He knows how to help you. He’s OUR high priest, who sympathizes with our weaknesses, which is our confession regarding Him. Let us hold fast to our confession.