Dr. Stanley explains how, if we truly understood who God is, we would come to Him in prayer more often. What keeps you from taking your concerns to God? Learn how you can have an audience with the all-powerful, loving King.
Sermon Outline
Most people today have never had an audience with a king. If you wouldn’t know how to imagine such a thing, you’re not alone. In today’s message, Dr. Stanley unpacks what it means to come before God’s throne of grace—and why that’s a place of comfort for believers.
Key Passage: Hebrews 4:14-16
Supporting Passages: Isaiah 6:1-8; Romans 8:34; 1 Corinthians 3:12-15
Why don’t we spend more time in prayer? One reason is that we don’t understand who God really is. Once we grasp the reality of His character, we’ll be motivated to pray more and grow closer to Him.
►“All who receive Jesus Christ as their personal Savior are clothed in the righteousness of Christ.”
Blessings of the throne of grace (Heb. 4:14-16):
Jesus is our high priest.
He understands everything we will face.
Because of Jesus, we are welcomed to God’s throne of grace, where He sits at the Father’s right hand (Rom. 8:34).
Our faith in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ makes us holy and allows us into God’s presence.
At the throne, God dispenses His love, mercy, goodness, and kindness.
►“Is it because we’re worthy of it? No—and that’s what grace is all about.”
Old Testament saints …
Approached God in a physical place.
Had a deep sense of His holiness and their unworthiness (Isa. 6:1-8).
Did not have the benefit of Jesus parting the veil and giving us access to God.
►“We ask for little things because we fear asking for big things.”
Believers are invited to approach the throne of grace …
Boldly (Heb. 4:16).
This does not mean we do so irreverently. We should maintain a sense of both the love of God and His holiness.Without fear.
We acknowledge God’s sovereignty but come as His children, unafraid.With confidence (v. 15).
Our assurance is based on Jesus’ humanity. He understands us.With expectation of blessing.
When we make big requests, we honor both God’s omnipotence and His love.Continuously.
We can come to God in prayer as often as we want—wherever we are and whatever we may be doing.
► “All we have to do is think ‘Father,’ and our access is instantaneous.”
What should we expect at the throne of grace?
Mercy. God does not give us what we deserve: His judgment.
Grace. He gives us what we don’t deserve: His favor.
Help in time of need. He promises to supply our need when it arises.
After Watching
This week, try praying with a physical posture of confidence. Sit up straight or stand, raise your head, and speak to God, secure in the knowledge you’ve been invited in. You have access because of Christ. Notice how different it feels to approach Him boldly, confident in His loving care.
Challenge yourself to approach God’s throne multiple times this week for “small things,” not just emergencies or your regular prayer time. Thank Him for your coffee. Ask Him about a decision at work. Tell Him why you’re tired. Practice treating His throne of grace like the accessible place it actually is.
