• Read Hebrews 5: 1-10

Ask the Holy Spirit to speak to you through His word.

The beginning verses talk about how the high priest was able to identify with the weaknesses of the people because he also had weaknesses.

Jesus is this kind of priest.

• How have you seen Jesus empathize with you and encourage you?
• Are there struggles and issues you face that it seems hard to see Jesus have compassion for?
• How have you seen suffering grow you and perfect you more in the image of Christ?

As we continue in the study of the Book of Hebrews, we will watch the video overview again from last month. Enjoy the Bible Project overview:

• As you are listening, jot some of the things that stand out to you

As we are spending this time in Hebrews, I wanted to include the link from the most recent sermon series through Hebrews. Check out some of these old sermons for more background:

As we anticipate being together for worship, spend some time preparing your heart to sit with your spiritual family.

Reflect back on the week’s devotions and bring before the Lord anything that you feel has usurped His rightful place in your heart.

Ask Him to speak as you are listening.

• Read Hebrews 4: 16

I love the words “receive” and “find” in this verse.

• What does it mean to ‘receive mercy’?
• How do we ‘find grace’?
• How do verses 14-15 help us to have confidence as we approach the throne?
• We approach in our time of need. Right now, what is your need?

• Read Hebrews 4: 14-15

What is the ‘therefore’ referencing in verse 14? (or what is the therefore there for?)

What sin in your own life is it hard to imagine Jesus being tempted by?

What do you think it looks like for Jesus to empathize with your struggles and temptations?

How does this strengthen our hold on our faith?

• Read Hebrews 4: 12-13

How does it feel to know that all of you is laid bare before the Lord—what sort of thoughts does this bring up?

Share a time when you felt the penetrating work of the word of God? How were your thoughts and attitudes judged?

What spiritual disciplines could enable you to be taking in more of the word?

• Read Hebrews 4: 6-11
• Pray

Last Friday—did any hardness of heart pop into your mind as you sat with the Spirit?

What about areas of nagging disobedience? Spend some time clearing the air between you and the Father.

Keith has often referenced verse 11 and talked about “effortful rest”. Making every effort to enter his rest. What sort of effort do you think this looks like for you?