CONFIDENCE

noun: boldness, openness; with all assurance and trust 

Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace in our time of need.   Hebrews 4:16 NIV

 God’s throne of grace.

Can you imagine with me what it might feel like to be standing before it? Before Him?

My heart starts beating faster just thinking about it. An overwhelming combination of thoughts and emotions rush through me as I picture myself stepping closer to his throne.

Feelings of guilt and self-condemnation try to crowd into this space meant for reverence and joy. But this verse reminds me that fear and shame really have no place to stand when we are with Jesus.

Of course, if God’s acceptance of us depended on our behavior, coming close to his throne would be terrifying. Impossible, actually.

But what a relief to know–for sure–than it doesn’t.

Paul says we can approach God’s throne with confidence. With boldness and openness. With all assurance and trust. The Message version says we can “walk right up to him and get what he is so ready to give. Take the mercy, accept the help.”

And why can we be so sure?  Where does this confidence come from?  

It comes from the reassurance that his throne is built on grace.

And this grace that is the foundation of the throne of God extends out as far as we have strayed, warmly inviting us into his presence. He tells us that we are welcome. Welcome to cry, to kneel, to dance, to confess, to ask, to behold, to thank, and to breathe in his overwhelming love.  We are welcome to stand in front of him expectant and sure of his mercy and help at this very moment. No matter what.

Because of his sacrifice for us, because of the blood he shed on the cross, we are allowed to come close. Not with pretense or pride, not with shame and self-condemnation, but with humble and joyful confidence in his generous and unconditional love.

INVITE HIM IN

Close your eyes and take a deep breath. Smile with relief as you step into the presence of Jesus with boldness and assurance. He sees you, forgives you, and welcomes you with grace. He’s made a place for you to stand where he will give you the mercy and help you need.  You can be sure of him.