Hebrews 4:14 Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.

15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

Introductory Thoughts

The scripture plainly declares that God was compassionate prior to the coming of Christ. His coming to earth in a body of flesh simply confirmed that He is a compassionate Saviour. The coming of Christ, in the likeness of sinful flesh, enabled God the Son to experience the temptations and struggles of mankind (Romans 8:3, Hebrews 5:8). His compassion on earth reveals that He suffered with man, but more importantly, He suffered for man. He took the sin of the world upon Himself (2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:24), and gave man His own righteousness in its place (2 Corinthians 5:21). One of the greatest demonstrations of His compassion is the fact that God Himself loved us enough to be housed in a body of flesh (Hebrews 10:5).

Devotional Thoughts

  • (For children): How would you feel if someone took you out of your home and put you in a home where you were not loved by everyone and even got mistreated? Jesus willingly did this for you.
  • (For everyone): Did Jesus learn anything by coming in a body of flesh? If so, what did He learn? What are some of His experiences while on earth that you might also have to endure?
  • God’s compassion stems from His mercies (Lamentations 3:32). Since each of us is undeserving of His mercies, isn’t it also likely that we are undeserving of His compassion?

Prayer Thoughts

  • Ask God to help you sacrifice for Him like He sacrificed for you.
  • Ask God to help you understand the benefits of His compassion.