Going back to the previous chapter, we see that the hearts of men can lead them away from God (3:7-11) The writer speaks of a "rest" for believers, which they will enter into after their work is finished, provided their hearts do not lead them away from God (3:12). Here in chapter 4, we see that this is a heavenly rest—a rest in glory, where the people of God will enjoy the presence of God for eternity (vs 9). "Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience" (vs 11).
How do we strive? We do two things: (1) we go to the word of God as the instrument which discerns the intentions of our hearts, and (2) when our weaknesses are exposed, we go to the Son of God for grace.
(1) God's word is a sword for us to use in our fight against the enemy. But this sword also pierces us, cutting open our hearts and exposing all that would hinder us from our progress in the fight of faith (vv 12-13).
(2) With our weaknesses in full view, we would be in big trouble if we served a god who could not sympathize with us in our shortcomings. We would surely be seen as useless and then be disposed. But we have a high priest, Jesus, who is able to sympathize with our weaknesses, for he has been tempted just as we are (vv 14-15).
"Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (vs 16). God is a personal, loving Father who invites you into his rest through the grace of his Son.
So go to God's word to discern what's in your heart, and then go to God's Son to get grace for that which is exposed.
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