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Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. – Hebrews 4:16 ESV

Greek
παρρησίας/parrēsias: outspokenness, boldness

Why It Matters
The 1966 Los Angeles Dodgers had every reason to exude confidence heading into the World Series. Led by aces Sandy Koufax and Don Drysdale, the Dodgers had coasted to the NL pennant, winning 95 games. The Baltimore Orioles met them in the World Series as significant underdogs. Their young stars had never been to a World Series; in fact, their pitching staff was “led” by 20 year old Jim Palmer. But the O’s held the Dodgers to a mere two runs in a four game sweep, beginning a run of four World Series trips in the span of six years. From sports to school to relationships to life goals, all of us are familiar with the experience of our confidence being dashed.
Dr. Timothy Keller has summed up the heart behind the context of the word parrēsias (confidence, boldness) quite nicely: “The only person who dares wake up a king at 3:00 AM for a glass of water is a child.” The child has parrēsias because they fully trust their father. Their confidence isn’t in their ability or behavior, but something bigger than themselves. The writer of Hebrews can encourage us to draw near with parrēsias to the throne of grace because Jesus has secured a relationship with the Father that is based on his work, not our past performance! Now we are able to walk in the assurance that when we need grace and mercy, Jesus has an endless supply.

Prayer
Thank you Lord for your willingness to sympathize with our weakness and give us grace for our time of need. I recognize my sin; I need you to be my High Priest! Your intercession on my behalf has filled my life with mercy and grace, and I’m thankful.

Application
What will I bring to God confidently?