Last Sunday, Justin had an excellent sermon about prayer. If you have not heard it, I suggest that you find it online and listen to it. One of his points was that we need to approach Jesus’ throne with boldness. Justin’s reference comes from Hebrews chapter 4. Starting at verse 15, the Hebrew writer says, “For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses but was in all points tempted as we are yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
The thought of approaching the throne of grace boldly runs counter to our human nature. Remember that Esther feared approaching the king even though he was her husband (Esther chapter 4). However, we know that if we are obedient to God’s word, we are counted as His children (John 1:12).
The Holy Spirit tells us in Hebrews that this citizenship in Christ’s kingdom gives us special blessings. Among these blessings are the knowledge that God hears our prayers and answers our prayers. Not only this, but we can boldly approach the throne of grace in time of need.
Brethren, I think this is a time of need! We have several members, friends, and relatives battling cancer as well as other health issues. We have brethren who need encouragement to return to fellowship with God and the church. We have members grieving over their losses. We know many who are lost in our surrounding community. We support missionaries who have much worse living conditions than we do. Our country and government at all levels are struggling with control of the Covid virus. We have political turmoil over various issues throughout the US.
Given all these needs, let us pray boldly for our friends, our brethren, our country and even our enemies!
For the elders, Dave Benner