Lenten Devotional - Day Nine

Scripture: Hebrews 4:12-16

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (Heb. 4:15-16)

  It takes courage to admit, even to yourself, that you need help, that life has spun out of control because of addiction. To acknowledge the ways you’ve harmed yourself and others is not for the faint of heart. We increase our burden when we think of God and fear a great disciplining parent in the sky, ready to dole out the punishment we deserve.

  The fact is, all of us deserve punishment for our waywardness; the addict is no different from the person who seems to have it all together. We all sin and fall short of the glory of God. That is why we need and have a Savior in the person of Jesus Christ. Not only do we have a Savior, we have someone who understands why we might have a deep-seeded desire to escape the reality of this life, even if that escape is through substances that end up making things worse. Jesus knows what it means to be human and live in this fallen world. He was betrayed by one of his closest followers. Jesus grieved at the tomb of his good friend Lazarus. Jesus was the target of others’ scorn. The devil visited Jesus and tempted him to deny his status as God’s beloved Son. Jesus many times could have taken the easy way out, the way that did not involve a cross, but he did not.

  Jesus understands how we are tested, the trials and troubles we have seen. Not only does he understand, he shows us mercy because he knows how hard it is, and he remembers that we are human. We don’t have to fear a parent’s wrath. Instead, we can come confidently to Jesus, knowing he will offer pardon…and not just pardon, but mercy and grace to help us in our time of need, not just in our time of confession.

  Let us pray for all who fear God, that they may know our Savior’s grace and favor. Let us pray for fear to be transformed into confidence that will then guide them on a new path.

Alice Tondora, Contributor

Remember in Prayer: Individuals finding it difficult to admit to their problems and need courage to move forward.

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Informational Resources

National Institute on Drug Abuse: Advancing Addiction Science

Wide range of information related to research, studies, and facts on drug abuse. www.drugabuse.gov/