Hebrews 4:15-16
7 prayers from this passage, for betrayal, anger, grief, fear & anxiety, loneliness, shame, doubt
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. 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. Hebrews 4:15-16 (NIV)
What was going on when this was written
Written to people drifting away from a faith that had already cost them a great deal. The claim is specific rather than general: not that God understands in principle, but that Jesus was tempted in every way they were. It does not say the weakness goes away, only that it is not what disqualifies you from approaching.
Prayers from this passage
The same words, prayed from different places. Take whichever one fits tonight.
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A High Priest Who Understands
When you think God cannot understand
Lord Jesus, You understand the pain of betrayal.
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Throne of Grace
When you are angry and still want to pray
Jesus, You understand my anger and frustration.
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Empathy in Grief
When you need to be understood
Lord, You wept at the tomb of Lazarus.
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Grace in Time of Need
When you need help right now
Jesus, You were tempted in every way and understand my fears.
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Not Alone in Weakness
When you feel weak and ashamed of it
Lord, in my loneliness I remember that You understand isolation.
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Confidence Despite Shame
When you feel too ashamed to pray
Father, shame tells me to hide, but Your Word says I can approach Your throne with confidence.
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Confidence When Doubting
When you doubt and still want to pray
Jesus, even when I doubt, I can approach Your throne with confidence.
If you came here for one of these
Prayers for betrayal , Prayers for anger , Prayers for grief , Prayers for fear & anxiety , Prayers for loneliness , Prayers for shame , or Prayers for doubt .