Be Gentle

He is able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and are going astray, since he is also subject to weakness. Hebrews 5:2 HCSB

When our granddaughter, Ella Grace, comes to visit she enjoys petting our cocker spaniel. Ella Grace will soon be two and is still learning how to be gentle with the dog. She can sometimes grab or pet too hard, so we have to remind her, “Be gentle.”

This verse is referring back to verse one and refers to the high priest being gentle and forgiving with those who have sinned. The high priest is human, just like the person who is coming to repent of his sins. He is subject to weaknesses and makes mistakes. Because he is human, he faces the same temptations that others face. Therefore, because he understands, he is gentle with the person and is more sympathetic. The word “ignorant” refers to someone who does not know right from wrong and has gone astray.

Challenge: Are you gentle with those who have done wrong? Are you willing to forgive those who have hurt you in some way? Because God has forgiven you, in turn you should be gentle and forgive others.

What Has God Called You to Do?

For every high priest taken from men is appointed in service to God for the people, to offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins. Hebrews 5:1 HCSB

During my college years I struggled to know what God’s will was for my life. I changed my major every year seeking to find the right place and occupation for me. I majored in history, pre-med., and finally graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Sciences. It was at a family enrichment retreat with my parents in Colorado that I felt God calling me into ministry. I wanted to work with teenagers in the church. When I was ordained to the Gospel ministry, I felt as though I had been “appointed” to work with teens and their families. I then devoted 24 years working in the youth ministry area before making the shift to education and administration.

Jesus was “appointed” by God to come to the earth to be the ultimate high priest and offer Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for the sins of all of the people of the world. It is only through Him that we can find mercy and forgiveness of our sins.

Challenge: Accept God’s gift of His Son who came to earth to make a way for your sins to be forgiven and for you to receive eternal life. Praise Him for His great love and forgiveness. What has God called you to do?

Be Bold

Therefore let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us at the proper time. Hebrews 4:16

Some people seem to have personalities that are shy and quiet while others have personalities that are bold and forthcoming. God has intentionally created everyone with unique qualities. My nature is to be quiet, but because of my profession I have learned to be more outgoing and friendly. It is challenging for me to be bold and aggressive, especially in a new situation where I do not know people. .

This Scripture tells us to “boldly” approach the throne of grace. We approach the throne through prayer. Because we know that Jesus was tempted and did not sin, we can be confident that He is able to give us the strength to resist temptation and keep us from sinning. Some approach God with meekness with their heads down, almost apologizing for asking anything of God. Others pray with boldness, expecting God to help them face temptation or whatever the situation requires.

Challenge: Pray for boldness. You can be bold because Christ is willing to present your requests to God the Father. Do not be timid; rather, boldly ask for whatever you need. Jesus is not only your Lord and King, but He is also your Friend and Counselor. He wants to help you!