“Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” – Hebrews 4:16
Leviticus is not my favorite book in the Bible. It tends to be monotonous and confusing. Today, though, I found a powerful, liberating truth buried deeply among the long list of rules.
In Chapter 16 God gives Moses instructions to pass on to his brother, Aaron. The Lord said, “Tell your brother Aaron not to come whenever he chooses into the Most Holy Place…or else he will die….” (16:2). That statement sounds unbelievably harsh, unless you understand the context.
Aaron was a priest. The main responsibility of priests was to offer sacrifices on behalf of the people and seek atonement for their sin. However, before performing their duties, priests had to spend hours in preparation. Leviticus 8-9 explains in great detail the steps Aaron and his sons had to take before meeting with the Almighty God. They had to be washed with water, wear special clothing, and be anointed with oil. In other words, they had to purify themselves.
Aaron’s sons, Nadab and Abihu, were also priests. While serving in the tabernacle one day, they completely disregarded God’s commands and decided to do things their own way. As a result, the Lord put them to death. When this unfortunate event occurred, God reminded Aaron of the seriousness of his position and the consequences of failing to honor God’s holiness.
As I read this passage, I was thankful freedom we have in Christ. Because Jesus died for our sin, we don’t have to live in fear as Aaron did. We can approach God with boldness at any time, and he promises to lavish us with love when we do!
You don’t have to “get ready” or make yourself clean to meet with God. He invites you to come just as you are. Any time. Whenever you choose.
Kristen, This is is really powerful! Christ dying at Calvary is something I really appreciate. I enjoyed the freedom of reaching out to Him anytime without making reservations.
I also see it as a reminder of God’s commitment to us. ANYTHING He says He will do He will do. We should always be sensitive to His will and be obedient!!
Thanks for allowing God to use you!! 🙂
Thank you so much for your comment! May God bless you today as you serve Him. 🙂
Once again you blow me away with your fantastic insights into God’s Word. This is so awesome. I have always loved the Hebrews scripture because of the thought that we can come BOLDLY into His throne to receive the mercy and grace He provides and I so desperately need. Knowing again how very hard it was before Christ makes this even more beautiful. Your fervor for Christ spurs me on today. Love you.
Thank you, friend. Any and all insights I receive are from our Father. Sometimes I, too, am blown away by what He shows me! 🙂 I’m thankful you were encouraged by this post. May God bless you in BIG WAYS today and fill you with much joy in Him.