The Throne of Grace
“Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (NIV) Hebrews 4:16
In ancient Israel, the following six places were virtually known by every Israelite; Kedesh, Hebron, Shechem, Bezer, Golan and Ramoth (Joshua 20:7-8). They were called Cities of Refuge and were easily accessible with smooth roads, good bridges as well as clear signposts giving unambiguous direction to them. An adequate supply of food and water were marks of these cities. And these were special locations reserved for any person who accidentally killed a fellow human.
Cities of Refuge served to give hope to any accidental manslayer and helped them to get some healing from their terrible experience. The Hebrew writer reminds us of Jesus as the great High Priest and the Son of God who knows what it means to be human (Galatians 4:4). Thus, God does not look away when we are in some difficult situation in which we don’t seem to find a way out. In our time, He has provided a better place than a City of Refuge: The Throne of Grace.
We only have to draw to God, not timidly, but with confidence, and we are assured of help when we need it (Hebrews 4:14-16). Visit the Lord’s throne today and always.