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Shofar Day 11 Dear Believers In Philadelphia

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Shofar Day 11 Dear Believers In Philadelphia

Rhonda Darville

February 2, 2026

Alive,Called,church,Grace,Holiness

Read His Words Before Ours!

Revelation 3:7-11
Isaiah 22:15-25
Matthew 25:14-30
Psalm 23
2 Timothy 4:7-8

Letters written in the past invite us into an exciting journey of discovery! Even better, letters contained in the Bible serve as important sources of revelation of God, both to their original readers and to us today.  

In the biblical book of Revelation, we find 7 letters written to 7 different churches. Today, we’ll dig into the letter written to the church at Philadelphia. (Revelation 3:7-11)

This beautiful letter is significant in multiple ways. As an amateur linguist, I love words and their meanings! Let’s begin by looking at the meaning of the church’s name. Philadelphia means brotherly love or the one who loves as a brother; today, we’ll see how believers in Philadelphia hold fast to their love for God! Philadelphia was also the youngest of the seven churches and was placed for missionary work to counter the Hellenistic culture in ancient Greece.

The writer of the letter is called “the Holy One, the true one, the one who has the key of David, who opens and no one will close, who closes and no one will open.” (Revelation 3:7)

Upon further examination, we learn these letters contain the words of Jesus; here, He is describing His character. His title of the “Holy One, the true one,” (Revelation 3:7) speaks to the very essence of who He is, not just what He does. (Hebrews 7:26-28, John 14:5-7) Furthermore, holiness and truth are aspects of the Holy Trinity and we are reminded that Jesus was the Word (Greek: logos) made flesh. (John 1:1-5) Jesus is God, come to earth for a time in human form. 

The “one who has the key of David” reinforces this idea, speaking to Jesus’ earthly identity from the line of King David. (Revelation 3:7) This moniker reveals Jesus’ divine and messianic authority. Also, the language of Revelation 3:7 is foreshadowed in Isaiah 22:15-25, when God transfers authority to a righteous leader, transcending human authority or power. Jesus’ heavenly authority and sovereignty are supreme, encompassing the power to govern and rule without interference. 

This may be hard for us to grasp in our world of self-appointed leaders and governmental power that seems limitless. As a missionary, I have needed to apply to countries such as the USA, Africa, Italy, and Malta for visas. I had to follow the guidelines provided, or my visa would be denied or revoked. 

Even within the Church, powers of welcome or exclusion seem to be held by fallible humans; yet in this passage, we see Jesus possessing the ultimate authority to His kingdom. I can personally attest, from the last thirty plus years of serving Christ in ministry, that this has proven true. Wow!! 

Daughters of God, sit up and take notice because that same authority works on our behalf! As we faithfully follow Him, He works on our behalf, opening and closing doors for His honor and glory and our good. We, like the church at Philadelphia, have unhindered access to every evangelistic opportunity God has ordained for us. 

Next, the church in Philadelphia is described as possessing little power but great faithfulness. (Revelation 3:8) This speaks to their reliance on God. When we are weak, He is strong (2 Corinthians 2:9-10); it is an acknowledgement we can do nothing apart from the Almighty. 

The letter to Philadelphia continues with Jesus promising protection for the believers, both from hypocritical enemies within the church and larger societal upheaval. (Revelation 3:9-10) 

I am reminded of Psalm 23:5: 
“You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil; 
my cup overflows.”

Jesus, in His ultimate and righteous authority, would deal with their enemies. 

Finally, Jesus exhorts believers in Philadelphia, “I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one takes your crown.” (Revelation 3:11)

This shofar call is to hold fast. Do not depart from the solid foundation on which the church of Philadelphia is built, for Jesus is returning soon. 

Like the church at Philadelphia, we are also told to hold fast to our firm foundation, Christ alone. Do not grow weary, sisters, knowing our strength comes from Christ and He covers our ministry opportunities with His power and authority. There will be trials, but Jesus will keep us. If we hold fast to the anchor that is Jesus Christ, we will be crowned with victory. (2 Timothy 4:7-8)

Like the church at Philadelphia, we must daily renew our love of and obedience to the Scripture and the example of Jesus Christ. Our actions must be in accordance with the Word of God. As we seek to honor the shofar call, may we hold fast to our love for God and one another, enduring the trials we face with full assurance His strength will carry us through. This is my prayer for myself and for you, dear friend. Amen!

“Let anyone who has ears listen to what the Spirit says to the churches[!]”
(Revelation 3:13)

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Jesus,King,obey,Revelation,shofar
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Even though theologians interpret these verses in different ways regarding how the end times will impact Christians, I find it comforting that Jesus prepares the Church for the trials that will come in daily life (John 16:33) and during the Great Tribulation.

Scripture is very clear, no matter what we face on earth, we never face it alone. (Joshua 1:9) In every situation, God is our Strength and our Shelter. (Psalm 46:1-2)
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The GT Weekend! ~ Slain, Week 3

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The GT Weekend! ~ Slain, Week 3

Katelyn Palmer

May 3, 2025

Alive,Comfort,Encourage,Faith,Glory,Joy,Kingdom,Obedience

Rest your soul through reflective journaling,
praying Scripture,
and worshiping the Creator who
longs for intimacy with each of us!

His Words Before Ours

John 16:20-22

Truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn, but the world will rejoice. You will become sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn to joy. When a woman is in labor, she has pain because her time has come. But when she has given birth to a child, she no longer remembers the suffering because of the joy that a person has been born into the world. So you also have sorrow now. But I will see you again. Your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy from you.
Read More Of His Words

Reflective Prayer

Dear Yahweh,
I begin this prayer with gratitude. Thank You for the encouragement brought forth by the stories of others’ deep faith in You. Thank You for the reminder of the larger difficulties of this world allowing me to realign my perspective of my personal hardship and blessings. Your gentle rebuke also points me to the truth of John 16:33, which says Jesus has already overcome the world!

I thank You, Lord, for the community of sisters in GTC that support souls all over the world facing various levels of persecution and hardship, as well as celebrate and fortify the growing faith of those very same souls.

As we walk into a new week, God, I ask You to fill each of us with love, hope, and mercy. As You fill our cups to overflowing, place people in our path who need You; give us the opportunity to encourage them with the joy You have given us!

Help us realign our perspectives to those of gratitude and increase our desire to wash ourselves clean in Your Word. (1 Thessalonians 5:12-27, Colossians 3:12-17) Let us walk without fear for we know You are watching, guiding, and protecting those who trust You. (Psalm 121) It is in Your Son Jesus’ name I pray this, Lord. Amen!
Pray Scripture

Worship Through Song

Reflection One

Following Jesus faithfully is simply stated in “full surrender”, but incredibly difficult to live out. In fact, we can only do it through the power of the Holy Spirit living inside believers!

We are offered the free gift of salvation by the mercy of the God who allowed His only Son to bear our sins on the cross, reconciling us to Him as His children and heirs to the throne. All that is required of us is to believe His promise and accept His gift. (Ephesians 2:1-10, Romans 10:8-13) Simple.

Jesus’ commandments to His followers is to love God and love one another as Jesus loved us. (Matthew 22:34-40) Simple.

Loving our enemies. (Matthew 5:44-48) Difficult.
Controlling our tongue. (Proverbs 13:3, James 3:8) Difficult.
Daily dying to our flesh. (Galatians 5:24) Incredibly difficult.

This same sentiment permeates Monday and Tuesday’s studies as Rhonda and Rachel encourage us with John 16:31-33. They remind us that trials and persecutions in this life should be in some way accepted joyfully as they will not overcome the promise of eternity with Christ. Additionally, they play a crucial role in deepening our relationship with God. (James 1:2-4 and 12-18)

Simple truths, difficult to walk out as we live in full life surrender. Sisters, armed with the knowledge that we will face hardship as we follow Jesus, let each martyr’s story encourage you to seek and serve the Lord all the more! Stand firm in your faith when threatened by temptation and persecution, choosing faith over fear.
Monday & Tuesday

Reflection Two

Death leaves a mark on all of our lives, but as we study the stories of martyrs, death can be particularly tender. Each author in our Slain Journey Theme has reminded us most people will not be called to die for Jesus, but all are called to live sacrificially for Him.

If you knew you only had 24 hours left to live, how would you choose to be intentional in love and in mission? Would you spend your fading hours in effort to win the lost? We must mourn the loss of lives like Rocio Pino, but then we must stand in their legacy and mimic their faith and fervor for our shared King!

We must become so intentional that our loved ones recall of us as they did of Rocio, “All who came to her heard about Christ.”

We must focus on the truth that a life favored by this world means we are not living in God’s light, for this world first hated Christ and will therefore hate us as His children. (John 15:18-27)

Sisters, I ask you, are you living a life that would beg others to ask of you for a reason for the hope you anchor in? (1 Peter 3:14-15)
Wednesday & Thursday

Reflection Three

“I love Jesus more than anything” was the common refrain found on Abdiwelli’s lips, but the real proof was evidenced by his regular, ordinary life of constant, willing surrender. No one comes to faith in Jesus and hopes to be martyred; death for Christ wasn’t Abdiwelli’s aim in life, but willing surrender to the God who died to save him? Yes, certainly!

I recently was enthralled by a novel that emphasized regular surrender. The novel was a biography of sorts of a woman who made a significant impact in the lives of those around her, and she happened to live in my city. I had never heard her name, and likely, the vast majority who live in my city wouldn’t recognize her name either, but her life carried weighty impact for many immigrants to the US. Each day, Mrs. Kip surrendered her full self to the service of Christ, whatever it was for the day, and in so doing, she died to herself a little more every day. (The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip)

You likely hadn’t heard Abdiwelli’s story until this week, and you’ve probably never heard Mrs. Kip’s either. But, to the Lord Jesus Christ who appointed each of them as His faithful stewards of the gospel He entrusted to them, every breath in their story infinitely matters.

And so it is with us.

We are called to die to self, everyday. This won’t make land us in the book of martyrs, but it will further the Kingdom of Heaven. It will make us more like Jesus. It will honor our King. It will bring more souls to Him. Not because we are somehow faithful or especially wonderful, but because the Lord God promises to fulfill His purposes in us.

So run faithfully, Sister. Die to self today and live full and free for Christ, the One who holds eternity!
(Written by Rebecca Adams)
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courage,Easter,eternity,hope,joy,life,martyr,persecution
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Slain Day 15 Abdiwelli Ahmed: Digging Deeper

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Slain Day 15 Abdiwelli Ahmed: Digging Deeper

Rebecca Adams

May 2, 2025

Alive,Discipleship,Faith,Glory,Hope,Mercy,Peace,persecution

Discover the original intent of Scripture. Make good application to our everyday lives.
Become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

This DD Connects With "Abdiwelli Ahmed"
Why Dig Deeper?

Read His Words Before Ours!

Psalm 49:5-9

Why should I fear in times of trouble?
The iniquity of my foes surrounds me.
6 They trust in their wealth
and boast of their abundant riches.
7 Yet these cannot redeem a person
or pay his ransom to God —
8 since the price of redeeming him is too costly,
one should forever stop trying —
9 so that he may live forever
and not see the Pit.
Read More Of His Words

The Original Intent

1) What is the context of the psalmist’s question and why does it matter? (verse 5)

You’ll see it over and over again in our studies at Gracefully Truthful because it’s so essential, “Don’t just read a verse; read the context!”. Without the broader picture, we can’t gain a right understanding of Scripture. Sometimes that means 8 verses instead of 1, or a chapter instead of a paragraph, or sometimes it means the whole book. For studying any passage in the book of psalms, I implore you, fellow student of God’s Holy Word, read the whole psalm! With right understanding, we can make right application, thereby building strong and steady lives. (Psalm 119:45)

Psalm 49 uniquely begins with a bit of tongue in cheek humor and a hint of sarcasm woven into its words. Missing out on reading the whole chapter will leave a lackluster perspective on the psalm, and you would miss out on extremely impactful applications, so go ahead, read the whole chapter!

Did you note the author of the psalm? Details matter, so check the heading and you’ll likely find “For the choir director. A psalm of the sons of Korah”. So what, right? Think again! This arrogant Dad, Korah, was swallowed by the earth for his rebellion against God, but his sons were mercifully spared! (Numbers 26:9-11) These sons, who witnessed God’s righteous justice take the life of their dad grew up to be worship leaders for Israel. Psalm 49 is one of their poems set to music. (verse 3)

The sons pen a psalm that cleverly asks a riddle, but this isn’t simply a play on words, it’s a riddle rooted within their own heritage. The answer has been played out in the days, months, and decades since these men watched God’s judgment exact justice from the rebellious ones, which included their own dad.

Years later, Korah’s sons know the answer to the question they ply because they have witnessed its reality; more so, they have lived its truths and they write, and sing, so all will remember the truths they have come to know as richly as their own family tree.

The Everyday Application

1) To whom did Paul write this passage and why?

If self-centeredness was an underlying problem among believers in the first century, how much more it is now! Today’s world is driven by the individual.

We talk about self-esteem, self-reliance, self-help…and people continue to become more isolated. Yes, even in the Christian “community.” We need a revival! We, as the Church, need to re-invigorate our faith and this happens when we come together with a singular purpose, worship for the Father which overflows onto loving those around us.

Persecution has always existed, and will continue until Jesus returns, but our calling to love God and love others through the unified Body of Christ remains constant. 
Are you with me?! 

The Original Intent

2) What is humility and how was the audience to achieve it?

Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less, as my pastor says. It requires consideration of other people, putting yourself in their shoes, anticipating their needs. Humility is an active setting aside of your own desires and a deference to others’ needs (not their selfish desires).

Jesus Christ exemplified humility in its highest form by going to the cross, as Paul stated in verses 7-8. He humbled himself by being obedient; the Philippians were to look to Him as their example. 

The Everyday Application

2) What is humility and how was the audience to achieve it?

In isolation, humility evaporates. Self, left alone, will focus on self. It’s sort of a catch-22 situation…so how do we break the cycle? Paul would exhort us to remember who we are in Christ, to look to Him as our example, and to do what He did: get out there and help people!

When truly thinking of others and wanting to meet their needs, it’s nearly impossible to be prideful. There are so many ways to love people through churches and community organizations. Perhaps you even know someone personally who would be blessed by you, maybe someone the Spirit is bringing to mind right now.

Pray about how, and who, you can help, then take a step toward humility by being obedient to the Spirit’s prompting. He will be gracious to help you in your efforts! 

The Original Intent

3) What does it mean to have fellowship with the Spirit?

Every Christian, both first century and present-day, as well as all who came between, have been given the gift of the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. Because the Philippian believers also had the Holy Spirit within each of them, they could each fellowship with Him.

But the Spirit will also elicit concern for other believers in the hearts of those He indwells. If this is acted upon, a deeper and truer fellowship with the Spirit can occur.

The Everyday Application

3) What does it mean to have fellowship with the Spirit?

How many of us race through life at a break-neck pace, falling into bed exhausted only to do it all again the next day? Sound familiar? 
My life isn’t exactly at break-neck pace, but because of some health issues, I require more rest than most people. Because of that, I never feel like I have enough time to do everything that I want to do. 

When I don’t feel like I have enough time, I don’t take any time to just BE…to be with the Lord, to pay attention to the Holy Spirit leading me. Maybe you can relate, dear sister. In fact, I can almost guarantee that most of us feel this way. We’re doing ourselves a disservice by skipping this communion and we’re also being disobedient by not making God our first and foremost.

We should wake up with excitement to see what God will do through us that day. Instead, I wake up dreading the workday and traffic. God probably rolls His eyes at me. Ha! 

In churches, we consider “fellowship” a meal (or at least snacks!) with other Christians, for the purpose of visiting, connecting, and learning about one another’s lives. Fellowship with the Holy Spirit can be just such a time! Tell Him about the realities of your life and listen for nudges of what He wants you to do and who He wants you pray for! 

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comfort,Easter,hope,martyr,peace,persecution,sing,worship
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“I love Jesus more than anything. I have suffered persecution because I believe in Him, I obey Him, and I serve Him. I will not live forever in this world and I want to leave behind a heritage for those who live after me.”

These powerful words depict a life completely surrendered to the One who gave His life for us. Abdiwelli Ahmed spoke these words one year before he was martyred in the streets of Kenya on February 7, 2013.

Based on his words, if given the chance to escape death that day, he probably wouldn’t. Why?

Because Jesus was everything to him and the fruit from his death was great.
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Slain Day 15 Abdiwelli Ahmed

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Slain Day 15 Abdiwelli Ahmed

Marietta Taylor

May 2, 2025

Alive,Deliver,Fervent,Follow,Hope,Peace,persecution,Persevere

Read His Words Before Ours!

Revelation 12:10-12
Matthew 16:24-27
John 16:5-16
John 3:16-21
Psalm 49:5-9

“I love Jesus more than anything. I have suffered persecution because I believe in Him, I obey Him, and I serve Him. I will not live forever in this world and I want to leave behind a heritage for those who live after me.” (YWAM Associates)

These powerful words depict a life completely surrendered to the One who gave His life for us. Abdiwelli Ahmed spoke these words one year before he was martyred in the streets of Kenya on February 7, 2013. Based on his words, if given the chance to escape death that day, he probably wouldn’t. Why? Because Jesus was everything to him and the fruit from his death was great.

Abdiwelli Ahmed was from Somalia and raised Muslim. “He was taught that Islam was in his blood. But in 1993, while he was in college, he began to question Islam and compare the Quran with the Bible” (MissionsBox); “He found more than 500 errors and contradictions in the Quran.” (The Voice of the Martyrs) So he left college and enrolled in a Biblical university. He converted to Christianity and started to preach the Gospel. 

Abdiwelli said in an interview, “I was persecuted. I was chased away, then I was beaten up. I was chased away from home. All sorts of bad things were done to me. My whole life was in danger.” (MissionsBox) Notably, he “was the first Somalian to have openly declared his faith after conversion to Christianity” (YWAM Associates); soon after, “A crowd of 40 people came to his mother’s house to kill him.” (MissionsBox) In committing to Christ, he lost his home, his family, and any semblance of safety. But he was undeterred. 

He married Helen, herself a Christian. They lived in Nigeria for three years ministering among the Tuareg tribe. Then, his love for his people led him to settle among the Somali population in Garissa, Kenya. 

Even there, he and Helen faced danger. “The threats began again almost immediately. A group of Muslims arrived at the house of Abdiwelli and Helen with gas cans and intentions to burn her.” (MissionsBox) But Helen shared Abdiwelli’s commitment to God. “‘When we were threatened with death,’ Helen said, ‘we prayed together. That gives us peace, because God said He would be with us.’” (MissionsBox; Matthew 28:19-20)

Abdiwelli Ahmed spent twenty years preaching the gospel and sharing Jesus with others; then, his death planted a seed no murderer could keep from growing. “His story is told among Somali Christians in South Africa, certainly in northern Kenya, in East Africa, even in Minnesota here in the United States, in the Somali community there.” (Baptist Press)

Today, Helen continues the ministry. “We should never stop reaching out to the lost and dying world until Christ comes,” she said. “A friend of mine who is afraid to go to the northeast told me to be careful. I told her, ‘If I try saving my life, I will lose it.’”(The Voice of the Martyrs; Matthew 16:24-27)

Abdiwelli and Helen both realized the true meaning of John 3:16.
“For God loved the world in this way:
He gave his one and only Son, so that
everyone who believes in Him
will not perish but have eternal life.”  

With their eyes on eternity,
Abdiwelli and Helen emulated Jesus’ sacrificial love. 

Revelation 12:11 says, “They conquered [the accuser] by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; for they did not love their lives to the point of death.”
Both Abdiwelli and Helen embody this verse. 

We see this echoed in Christ’s own words, “If anyone wants to follow after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life because of Me will find it. For what will it benefit someone if he gains the whole world yet loses his life? Or what will anyone give in exchange for his life?” (Matthew 16:24-26)

We may not be called to martyrdom, but we are called to take up our crosses and follow Jesus. For me personally, answering this call has been challenging. Choices I made as a young mom were not popular with my daughters (and sometimes other mothers), but often gave me an opportunity to speak about Jesus. I was mocked for my faith at work, but I stood strong. Eventually I had the honor of praying for several of those same mocking coworkers at their request.

Recently, I desperately wanted to attend an event but felt the Holy Spirit leading me to refrain. A friend, who is not a believer, was surprised I willingly “gave it up.” I replied I was being obedient to the prompting of the Holy Spirit, of which Jesus spoke when He said, “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth.” (John 16:13)

My sacrifices seem small, compared to Abdiwelli’s. But they reveal obedience and trust in the Lord. Even these small moments open the door to sharing the Gospel. Jesus is worth both our small and large acts of obedience and love. After all, He gave His life to atone for our sins and rescue us from the power of sin and death! 

As we devote our lives to following Jesus and spreading the Gospel, let us all live by these words:

“[L]et us lay aside every hindrance and the sin
that so easily ensnares us.
Let us run with endurance the race
that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus,
the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.”
(Hebrews 12:1-2)

Tags :
eternity,hope,persecution,reward
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Slain, Day 15
Digging Deeper

The sons pen a psalm that cleverly asks a riddle, but this isn’t simply a play on words, it’s a riddle rooted within their own heritage.

The answer has been played out in the days, months, and decades since these men watched God’s judgment exact justice from the rebellious ones, which included their own dad.

Years later, Korah’s sons know the answer to the question they ply because they have witnessed its reality.
Dig Deeper!

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Prayer is central to our ministry as believers in Jesus as we carry eachother’s burdens and intercede for one another. Our team is honored to share the work of praying alongside you!

This Week's Lock Screen
Explore This Journey Theme!
April 14 - May 2, 2025 - Journey Theme #139

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Authentically living out a life of worship to the God who rescued us from darkness requires accountability and intentionality. Join a GT POD and take the next step in your faith journey!

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Slain Day 14 Rocio Pino: Digging Deeper

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Slain Day 14 Rocio Pino: Digging Deeper

Marietta Taylor

May 1, 2025

Alive,Anchored,Christ,Forgiven,Freedom,Heaven,Help,Peace,persecution

Discover the original intent of Scripture. Make good application to our everyday lives.
Become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

This DD Connects With "Rocio Pino"
Why Dig Deeper?

Read His Words Before Ours!

John 16:16-24

“In a little while, you will no longer see me; again in a little while, you will see me.”

17 Then some of his disciples said to one another, “What is this he’s telling us: ‘In a little while, you will not see me; again a little while, you will see me,’ and, ‘Because I am going to the Father’?” 18 They said, “What is this he is saying, ‘In a little while’? We don’t know what he’s talking about.”

19 Jesus knew they wanted to ask him, and so he said to them, “Are you asking one another about what I said, ‘In a little while, you will not see me; again in a little while, you will see me’? 20 Truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn, but the world will rejoice. You will become sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn to joy. 21 When a woman is in labor, she has pain because her time has come. But when she has given birth to a child, she no longer remembers the suffering because of the joy that a person has been born into the world. 22 So you also have sorrow now. But I will see you again. Your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy from you.

23 “In that day you will not ask me anything. Truly I tell you, anything you ask the Father in my name, he will give you. 24 Until now you have asked for nothing in my name. Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete.”
Read More Of His Words

The Original Intent

1) Why were Jesus’ words confusing to the disciples? (verses 16-18)

This conversation takes place at Passover Supper. After eating, Jesus had many parting things to say to His disciples. He spoke about having Christlike love (John 15:9-17) with His command to “Love one another” (John 15:17) while warning of impending persecution for the disciples just as Jesus had, and would, endure. (John 15:18-25) Not leaving them fearful of persecution or hopelessly grieving in the wake of His departure, Jesus spoke of the coming ministry of the Holy Spirit who would help them endure, whether persecution or sorrow. (John 16:1-15) Finally, Jesus spoke of how His friends wouldn’t see Him, and then seeing Him again shortly thereafter.

David Guzik of Enduring Word states it like this, “If Jesus wishes to found the Messianic kingdom, why go away? If He does not wish it, why return?” Because the disciples still didn’t understand what was about to happen to Jesus, His words confused them. They had no idea the meal they ate would one day be referred to as the “Last Supper”. Little did they know Judas was the prophesied one to betray Jesus in the next couple of hours. (Psalm 41:9 and Zechariah 11:12-13) Though Jesus had told them explicitly He would be crucified, die, and be raised, returning to them as Savior of the world, in their distress and bewilderment they hadn’t yet put all the pieces together. (Matthew 17:22-23)

Though Jesus had spoken of what was to come, “The notion of Christ’s secular kingdom was so deeply rooted in them that they could make no sense at all of those sayings of His which they knew not how to reconcile with that notion.” (Matthew Henry Commentary) Jesus was presenting the plain facts to them, but they were so caught up in what they thought was going to happen, they lost the ability to understand what they were being told.

The Everyday Application

1) Why were Jesus’ words confusing to the disciples? (verses 16-18)

While we have the privilege of hindsight for that night of the last Supper, the disciples did not so, what Jesus was saying to them made no sense based on what they knew. We suffer this same fate sometimes. God may ask us to do something that seems outlandish, and because we don’t know what He has planned, His instructions seem confusing. Think back to Joshua and the Israelites marching around Jericho. (Joshua 6:1-27) It seemed crazy to think fortified walls would tumble by marching and shouting, but didn’t God give them the victory by doing just that?!

Sometimes the Lord asks us to endure suffering, and quite frankly, most of us would rather not. But, unlike at the Last Supper, when He knew He would need to leave for a short while, we have the Holy Spirit with us always. So, when we are confused or frustrated about what is happening and the challenges we are enduring, we can ask the Spirit for comfort and help.

Jesus has completed the work of a perfect sacrifice in order to give us the constant assurance of the Spirit’s presence. We also have the assurance that, one day, there will be no more suffering because He will return for us. “He’s talking not only about the three days between his crucifixion and resurrection but also about the 2,000-plus years between his ascension and second coming. In other words, “a little while” is for us too.” (The Gospel Coalition)

If we hold onto Jesus’ promise of assurance, we can clear our confusion because God is good and He will never forsake us. (Isaiah 41:10)

The Original Intent

2) Why does Jesus link joy to sorrow? (verses 19-22)

The disciples didn’t understand the full weight of sorrow that awaited them in Jerusalem where Jesus would be crucified, die, and His dead body laid in a tomb. (Mark 15:20-47) They would grieve just as He said, “Truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn.” (John 16:20) Even more than that, they had no idea the great sorrow Jesus would endure from being forsaken by His Father.

Why would the Father forsake His one and only Son? Why would Jesus willingly die? Scripture tells us! “For the joy that lay before Him, He endured the cross, despising the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2) What was the joy laid before Him? The disciples, His followers, and over thousands of years, all believers. His joy was to love us enough to save us through His death and resurrection.

When the disciples saw the resurrected Jesus on the third day, their joy was greater than their sorrow had been. “The pain is intense, but relatively short-lived, and what comes after is a lasting and even-more-intense joy.” (BibleRef) According to Josh Butler, “Jesus says resurrection brings a joy so great we’ll “no longer remember” the anguish. (John 16:21) I don’t think this means we’ll forget but that our memories will be transformed, overwhelmed by joy.” (The Gospel Coalition)

Jesus was telling His disciples that every suffering or sorrow they endured, He would eventually turn to a joy so great it would surpass their grief. This was exactly the encouragement they needed for the path ahead.

The Everyday Application

2) Why does Jesus link joy to sorrow? (verses 19-22)

Charles Spurgeon said of Jesus’ suffering on the cross, “That he should suffer was cause for grief, but that he has now suffered all [for us] is equal cause for joy. When a champion returns from the wars bearing the scars of conflict by which he gained his honors, does anyone lament over his campaigns?”

The suffering of Christ allows us to have the joy of salvation. The two are inextricably linked. And what a blessing that is!

We can read Rocio’s story and feel great sorrow for her, but because she embraced her salvation and the work Jesus gave her to do, her death at the hands of those to which she was showing Christlike love, is joyful. Because of her story, we are convinced and convicted to be more committed to the cause of Christ in our own lives. We may suffer following Jesus, but the joy resulting from obedience will be so much sweeter than any loss. (Romans 8:18)

Gloria Ponman, one of our GT writers, said it so well, “No matter the sacrifices we make in this life as we run the race of endurance set before us, all suffering fades in comparison to the glory that awaits us in eternity, for Christ has purchased our unfading victory with His humble surrender to death.” (Run For The Treasure)

The Original Intent

3) What is the complete joy Jesus speaks of in verse 24?

In the last two verses in this passage, Jesus speaks of a post-resurrection reality. He had already told His disciples that the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, would come to them once He was gone. But here, He speaks of the full complement of what that means. It is the Trinity in action.

John Piper expresses it this way, “I will rise from the dead. I will verify this by looking you in the face. Then I will go to the Father. Then we will pour out my Spirit on you. And until I come again, my Spirit will make my glory so real to you that no one will take your joy from you.”

Though the disciples did not fully realize it while Jesus was saying it, their complete joy would be the result of direct access to God the Father through prayer, asking in Jesus’ name. (John 16:23) Part of the Holy Spirit’s ministry would be to remind the disciples, and all believers, that God could and would answer their prayers.

The disciples had nothing to fear, not even sorrow. They would never be lost or forsaken because of Jesus and the power and authority He gave to direct-access prayer.

The Everyday Application

3) What is the complete joy Jesus speaks of in verse 24?

Our complete joy is the presence of the Lord. Our Journey Study series, Surrender, has a description that captures this so well, “Following Jesus for life begins with a single step of surrender, followed by many more steps of giving Him our all. The more we surrender, the sweeter Jesus becomes!” We are able to experience joy because the Lord is with us. Read through the Psalms and you will see how it is the presence of the Lord that sustains our lives, turning our sorrow into joy.

One of my favorite Bible passages is Isaiah 61:1-3. I think it says best what complete joy is and its true source:

The Spirit of the Lord God is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and freedom to the prisoners; to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor, and the day of our God’s vengeance; to comfort all who mourn, to provide for those who mourn in Zion; to give them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, festive oil instead of mourning, and splendid clothes instead of despair. And they will be called righteous trees, planted by the Lord to glorify him.

Friends, let us have the complete joy of being righteous trees planted by the Lord to glorify Him. May our beautiful righteousness be an invitation for others to join us.

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Slain, Day 13
Journey Study

Christian martyrs, when faced with death, choose death over recanting their faith because Christ is too precious to renounce.

As Christians living in the United States, we live in relative calm and peace without much threat of harm. But we must ask ourselves if we are willing, voluntarily, to suffer death if necessary rather than to deny Christ. (Matthew 10:39)

Would we be willing to face persecution with abiding faith and courage?
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Slain Day 13 Rocio Pino

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Slain Day 13 Rocio Pino

Michelle Brown

April 30, 2025

Alive,Courage,Fervent,Glory,Justice,persecution

Read His Words Before Ours!

James 1:12-18  
John 16:16-24
Acts 6:8-7:53 
Psalm 30:11-12

In Christianity, a martyr is a person who has lived a life of faith, determination, love, and dedication to Christ and lost his or her life as a result. Martyrs willingly face persecution, suffering, and death because of their faith in Jesus, steadfastly refusing to compromise their religious convictions.  Christian martyrs, through their sacrifice and dedication, play a vital role in shaping the faith of many and spreading the Gospel to the far parts of the earth. 

The history of Christian martyrdom is a long one. Three short decades after Christ’s crucifixion, Emperor Nero began the Roman Empire’s infamous persecution of early Christians (the Apostle Peter was crucified upside down under Nero’s command). The very first Christian martyr, however, was Stephen in the book of Acts. (Acts 6:8-7:60) After Stephen spoke to the religious leaders about the history of Israel, their rejection of the Messiah, and His execution, the people became enraged and stoned Stephen. 

Fast forward to modern day, and there are many Christians all over the world still being martyred in the name of Christ. In 2015, militia groups beheaded twenty-one Coptic Christians in Libya. John Allen Chau was a missionary in India shot and killed by arrows in 2018. Asia Bibi, a Christian woman accused of blasphemy by her neighbors, spent eight years in prison under a sentence of death until acquitted by Pakistan’s Supreme Court. 

One modern-day martyr is Rocio Pino, a wife, mother, and missionary who was gunned down by guerrilla fighters in Columbia on March 6, 2011.

Rocio was well known for sharing the Gospel with everyone she met, including the very guerrilla fighters who terrorized her neighborhood and ultimately took her life. She had once said to her husband, “All who come here will hear about Christ.” (www.persecution.com)

Her death on the doorstep of her own home was witnessed by her devastated husband. Though he found it hard to forgive those who murdered his wife, he nevertheless believes his wife’s commitment to fulfill the Great Commission was a decision worthy of Jesus and the advancement of His good news.

Jesus, His disciples, and His modern-day followers all endure trials. James 1:12 says, “Blessed is the one who endures trials, because when he has stood the test, he will receive a crown of life[.]” The author of James repeatedly emphasizes the necessity of aligning our actions with our faith, and this begs the question, “Do our own actions actually reflect our faith?”

Christian martyrs, when faced with death, choose death over recanting their faith because Christ is too precious to renounce. As Christians living in the United States, we live in relative calm and peace without much threat of harm. But we must ask ourselves if we are willing, voluntarily, to suffer death if necessary rather than to deny Christ. (Matthew 10:39)

Would we be willing to face persecution with abiding faith and courage?  

As I have matured in Christ by studying His word, I have realized how precious is the love of God and the sacrifice He has made for me. Jesus’ death on the cross wiped away my sins and provided me with the promise of eternal life. There are no words to express the sheer enormity of this and no costs can compare. Being crucified with Christ means I have a new life, and I am to daily focus on Him, listening to His wisdom through His Word and the Spirit living in me, pouring into my relationship with Him, and submitting to Christ in what He tells me to do. 

We will not all be called by God to make the ultimate sacrifice of laying down our lives for our faith, but the Bible does call all Christians to be prepared to give a defense of the hope within us. (1 Peter 3:14-15) We can give a defense of this hope and imitate Jesus by loving our enemies, denying self, esteeming and serving others, and most importantly, sharing the hope of the Gospel with all whom we encounter.

This Great Commission work comes with its own fair share of heartache, loss, and grief for us as it did for Rocio Pino. In light of this reality, may we be encouraged by the words of Jesus in John 16:20-22,

“Truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn, but the world will rejoice. You will become sorrowful, but your sorrow will be turned into joy [. . .] So you also have sorrow now. But I will see you again. Your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy from you.”

In Jesus, we find joy will never be lost, despite our current suffering. Like Rocio Pino and many who have gone before us, may we purpose to spend our lives pointing others to the hope of Jesus!

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Slain, Day 14
Digging Deeper

Truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn, but the world will rejoice. You will become sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn to joy.

When a woman is in labor, she has pain because her time has come. But when she has given birth to a child, she no longer remembers the suffering because of the joy that a person has been born into the world.

So you also have sorrow now. But I will see you again. Your hearts will rejoice,
and no one will take away your joy from you.
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April 14 - May 2, 2025 - Journey Theme #139

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Slain Day 12 Jean Paul Sankagui: Digging Deeper

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Slain Day 12 Jean Paul Sankagui: Digging Deeper

Rachel Jones

April 29, 2025

Alive,Comfort,Forgiven,Help,Love,persecution

Discover the original intent of Scripture. Make good application to our everyday lives.
Become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

This DD Connects With "Jean Paul Sankagui"
Why Dig Deeper?

Read His Words Before Ours!

John 16:25-33

“I have spoken these things to you in figures of speech. A time is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figures, but I will tell you plainly about the Father. 26 On that day you will ask in my name, and I am not telling you that I will ask the Father on your behalf. 27 For the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God

28 I came from the Father and have come into the world. Again, I am leaving the world and going to the Father.” 29 His disciples said, “Look, now you’re speaking plainly and not using any figurative language. 30 Now we know that you know everything and don’t need anyone to question you. By this we believe that you came from God.”

31 Jesus responded to them, “Do you now believe? 32 Indeed, an hour is coming, and has come, when each of you will be scattered to his own home, and you will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me. 33 I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world.”
Read More Of His Words

The Original Intent

1) Why does Jesus say He will stop using figures of speech with His disciples and start speaking plainly? (verse 25)

Regarding His teachings, Jesus told His disciples, “I have spoken these things to you in figures of speech. A time is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figures, but I will tell you plainly about the Father.” (John 16:25) Jesus spoke to the crowds and His disciples in parables and figurative language so He could relay His message in a way everyone could understand.

Christine Hoover explains, “Jesus’ task was to communicate His message in a way that would extend the invitation into God’s kingdom across cultures, eras, generations, and languages for centuries. […] He used word pictures […] to illustrate intangible truths.” Jesus also explained in Matthew 13:11 that He taught in parables to determine between those who truly desired to learn the Truth and those who were like the people described in Isaiah 6:9-10 who refused to recognize the Lord.

Josh Porter suggests, “The power of stories—even cryptic, metaphorical ones—will penetrate the hearts of some while hardening the hearts of others.” The disciples believed the message of Jesus and, as author Christine Hoover asserts, Jesus had “opened up their spiritual eyes and given them sight. They believed Jesus was the Messiah, and upon this truth each disciple would grow.”

Although the disciples often understood what Jesus taught in parables, it wasn’t always the case. (Mark 4:13) Jesus told the disciples He would speak to them plainly about the Father because His time of ministry on earth was drawing to a close and He would be sending them the Holy Spirit to deepen their understanding of everything Jesus had told them. The Spirit of Truth (John 14:17) would lead them into a more full comprehension of Jesus’ teachings.

The Everyday Application

1) Why does Jesus say He will stop using figures of speech with His disciples and start speaking plainly? (verse 25)

In college, I spent time studying Spanish and living with a family in Mexico. One night, my homework was to list some idiomatic phrases that my host family used. We laughed as they suggested funny sayings in Spanish and I countered with English equivalents.

For example, they would say, “it cost an eye from the face”, where I would have said, “it cost an arm and a leg.” Their saying for, “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree”, translated to, “from such a wood, such a splinter.” We laughed at how confused we would be if we only communicated with idiomatic expressions!

Jesus’ disciples might have had a similar reaction to His parables. In John 16:25, Jesus promised them “A time is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figures, but I will tell you plainly about the Father.” The disciples benefited from living with Jesus and asking Him questions about the parables He used to gain understanding. They also understood He was the Messiah and, as such, realized some of his figurative language referenced His Divinity. (Luke 14:15-24)

Sinclair Ferguson suggests, “Jesus tells these parables to probe inside us to see whether we really understand the gospel and whether the gospel is really beginning to transform our lives. They’re not just stories. They’re weapons in spiritual warfare.” Jesus promised He would speak plainly to the disciples, so they could understand His teaching and share His plan when He is gone. (Mark 16:15)

Charles Ellicott asserts that the Holy Spirit would bring “all things which He had said to the mind, and quickened their minds so that they could grasp its meaning.” Jesus made a way for His words to continue teaching the disciples even after His Resurrection and Ascension through the Spirit of God indwelling believers everywhere across time!

The Original Intent

2) Why did Jesus emphasize that the disciples would abandon Him, but His Father would never leave Him alone? (verse 32)

Jesus wanted His followers to realize that though humans are unfaithful, God is always faithful. (2 Timothy 2:13) In John 16:32, Jesus told His disciples, “Indeed, an hour is coming, and has come, when each of you will be scattered to his own home, and you will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me.” Although the disciples’ friendship to Jesus failed (Matthew 26:56) the love of the Father would carry Him all the way to cross to fulfill His purpose in offering atonement on behalf of all people. (Luke 22:42-43)

One reason Jesus told the disciples they would abandon Him was so they would know, Jesus “loved them for who they were and despite their shortcomings.” (Leon Morris) It was because of love that Jesus came to earth (John 3:16); He assured His disciples that though their loyalty would waver, God’s faithfulness never would. (Psalm 36:5)

Jesus came to reconcile people to God, and He used the disciples’ own failings to emphasize the steadfast love and faithfulness of the Father. Jesus, knowing that His closest friends would deny Him, juxtaposed their weakness with the great faithfulness of God. (2 Timothy 2:13).

Telling the disciples they would abandon Him signaled how Jesus would fulfill the Messianic prophecy of Zechariah 13:7 that when you strike the Shepherd, the sheep will be scattered, further confirming Christ as the Messiah. Jesus showed the disciples that His Father was a loving and faithful God who could be trusted to stay with them when all others turned away. (Hebrews 13:5)

The Everyday Application

2) Why did Jesus emphasize that the disciples would abandon Him, but His Father would never leave Him alone? (verse 32)

I loved reading as a young person, and I prided myself on never giving up on a book I started. I almost made an exception for J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, though. I struggled through it with little enjoyment. So, when my family wanted to watch all of the Lord of the Rings movies inspired by Tolkien’s Hobbits and their elaborate fantasy world, I was loathe to participate.

While I didn’t enjoy the numerous battles and fantastical creatures, I loved the deep friendship between two Hobbits, Samwise Gamgee and Frodo Baggins. Samwise was a loyal and faithful friend to Frodo, supporting him on his arduous and dangerous quest to carry the One Ring to Mordor. Samwise protected Frodo, encouraged him and cared for him their entire journey.

Jesus’ disciples could have learned a lesson from Samwise, because Jesus revealed that they would each be “scattered to his own home, and you will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me.” (John 16:32) Unlike Samwise Gamgee with Frodo, the disciples would abandon Jesus when danger came. But Jesus had a Friend in His Father, the One who was with Him all the way to the cross.

Jesus wanted His disciples to learn several things from His knowledge of their coming desertion. He wanted them to know He loved them even though He already knew they would fail Him. (Romans 8:38-39) He wanted them to recognize that in God they have a Friend who will never leave them (Joshua 1:9) because Jesus took the punishment of God’s abandonment for sin. (Matthew 27:46)

Jesus wanted them to become the kind of friend who remains faithful and true (John 15:12-13) because Jesus was faithful to them, making a way for them to be reconciled to an always-faithful God.

The Original Intent

3) How can Jesus’ victory over the world give us courage? (verse 33)

In John 16:33, Jesus said to His disciples, “You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world.” Jesus told His followers they would face obstacles and trials; still, this knowledge should not cause them to fear. Rather, the knowledge that He had overcome this world with its troubles should give them courage because this Victor fights for them. (Revelation 20:10)

Jesus’ victory is their victory, too. (1 Corinthians 15:57) D.A. Carson suggests, “By His death He has made the world’s opposition pointless and beggarly. The decisive battle has been waged and won. The world continues its wretched attacks, but those who are in Christ share the victory He has won.” Jesus assures the disciples that, with Him on their side, they are ultimate winners no matter what the world throws at them. (1 John 4:4)

Even though they will have troubles, they have the God of the universe in their corner. Alexander Maclaren asserts, “He promises a peace which co-exists with tribulation and disturbances, a peace which is realized in and through conflict and struggle.” Even when bad things happen, and it looks like they have lost, Jesus proclaims they have won the final battle in Him.

It is such grace for the Lord to embolden us with the knowledge that, in the face of troubles, His triumph is our triumph. He is clear that, though our situation may look grim, He has already defeated our foe and gained the victory. (Romans 8:37) Knowing this gives us courage no matter what troubles come our way.

The Everyday Application

3) How can Jesus’ victory over the world give us courage? (verse 33)

My family loves to watch their favorite sports team, the Kansas City Chiefs, play football every week during football season. One recent game was controversial. The Chiefs had already clinched a place in the playoffs so the outcome of the game didn’t affect their standings, though it did affect the fate of two other teams. The Chiefs decided to rest their best players and play their 2nd string, causing them to lose the game and send their opponent on to the playoffs with them while dashing the hopes of another team who needed that opponent to lose.

The Chiefs just didn’t care about the outcome of this gridiron battle because they knew they had already won a playoff berth. They knew they were victorious no matter how the game turned out. That is the kind of confidence the Lord wants us to have in His victory over the world. He tells His disciples in John 16:33, “I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world.”

No matter what we face or how a situation turns out, we have ultimate victory because of Christ’s work on the cross where He took our defeat and abandonment, so we wouldn’t need to. (Colossians 2:14-15, Matthew 27:46) D.A. Carson notes that Jesus’ message is that the disciples “cannot be harmed by the world’s evil, and they know who triumphs in the end. From this they take heart and begin to share His peace.”

Knowing that God fights for you and overcomes your enemies allows you to have confidence and peace rather than anxiety and stress when troubles come. (1 John 5:4-5)

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Slain, Day 11
Journey Study

As I consider Pastor Jean Paul and others who suffered death for their belief, as well as the faithful followers of Jesus listed in Hebrews 11, and our beloved Saviour Jesus Christ Himself, I realise I personally must understand the value of the call to follow Jesus Christ.

I have found immense value in His call, knowing the love Jesus demonstrated for me by laying down His life for me while I was still a sinner (Romans 5:8) transcends what anyone else has done or will do for me. In my finite mind, I cannot fully comprehend the depth of His love for me, but I am compelled to respond in kind.
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April 14 - May 2, 2025 - Journey Theme #139

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Slain Day 11 Jean Paul Sankagui

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Slain Day 11 Jean Paul Sankagui

Rhonda Darville

April 28, 2025

Alive,Encourage,Kingdom,persecution,Purpose

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philippians 1:21-30
John 16:25-33
Joshua 24:14-18
Revelation 2:8-11

Civil unrest in the country of Central African Republic (CAR) became real to me when my sister-friend, Julie, shared news of her sister’s kidnapping by rival, non-Christian factions in CAR. There we were, sitting in her living room in Virginia, discussing atrocities my mind could not fathom but Julie knew all too well. My sister-friend was born and raised in the CAR and personally knew the struggle and violence happening there.

Pastor Jean Paul Sankagui experienced these same struggles when he was martyred in CAR in 2017. As I learned his story, I was reminded of Jesus’s words in John 16:33:

“I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world.” 

Shortly before His sacrificial death, Jesus foretold the suffering He would endure, and told His disciples to expect the same. Yet as His disciples, we can take heart, knowing He is ultimately victorious. Our trials and tribulations will not hamper our eternity with Him. The trials of this present life are nothing compared to what we gain by faithfully following Jesus, even in suffering and death.

Pastor Jean Paul embodied this promise. He desired to be a voice for the Gospel in the Central African Republic. His church was situated in an extremely hostile environment and he did not shrink away from proclaiming the Good News to those around. 

During times of conflict, he refused to flee to safety. Pastor Jean Paul had a wife, seven children, and eleven grandchildren; when his family chose to remain in ministry despite the danger, they depicted Joshua 24:15, “As for me and my family, we will worship the LORD.” They faced strong resistance from local Muslims, who, though a demographic minority, wielded power derived from financial success. Their weapons consisted of the sword and money.

Pastor Jean Paul joined other pastors and believers who took up their cross and followed Jesus. (Matthew 16:24-28) Like Jesus, they too have become conquerors (Romans 8:37-39) and will not experience the “second death” (Revelation 2:11), or eternal separation from God. In Philippians 1:21, early Church preacher and apostle, Paul, explains, “For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” 

Pastor Jean Paul and his fellow believers who suffered death for their faith were a witness of the great call of Christ. Their lives are a spiritual heritage to those who knew them and to those of us, who hear of their faith in the face of death. Their testimony lives on. Their faith encourages us to press on! 

As I consider Pastor Jean Paul and others who suffered death for their belief, as well as the faithful followers of Jesus listed in Hebrews 11, and our beloved Saviour Jesus Christ Himself, I realise I personally must understand the value of the call to follow Jesus Christ. 

I have found immense value in His call, knowing the love Jesus demonstrated for me by laying down His life for me while I was still a sinner (Romans 5:8) transcends what anyone else has done or will do for me. In my finite mind, I cannot fully comprehend the depth of His love for me, but I am compelled to respond in kind. 

I realise that, like Pastor Jean Paul and those who have gone before, I am just a sojourner in this world. My life is temporary, so I must be a good steward of the gift given to me. I, too, must join the ranks and take up my cross and follow Jesus. My voice must echo the love and knowledge of Christ’s sacrifice so others may gain freedom.

You and I may not be martyred for our faith, but our own personal desires must be crucified and Christ’s life and sacrifice must be magnified. We, as disciples of Christ, must die to sin daily and renew our minds with the knowledge of Scripture. (Romans 12:2) As disciples, our purpose is to proclaim the Good News and share our testimony of His great love to us. 

In closing, I’d like to leave you with the words of the hymn I Have Decided:
“I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back
Tho’ none go with me, I still will follow,
Tho’ none go with me I still will follow,
Tho’ none go with me, I still will follow;
No turning back, no turning back.
My cross I’ll carry, till I see Jesus;
My cross I’ll carry till I see Jesus,
My cross I’ll carry till I see Jesus;
No turning back, no turning back.
The world behind me, the cross before me,
The world behind me, the cross before me;
The world behind me, the cross before me;
No turning back, no turning back.”

May these words encourage us as we follow Jesus, 
choosing courage and faithfulness in the face of suffering, 
believing He has conquered sin and death!

Tags :
courage,eternal life,hope,martyr,persecution
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Slain, Day 12
Digging Deeper

Charles Ellicott asserts that the Holy Spirit would bring “all things which He had said to the mind, and quickened their minds so that they could grasp its meaning.”

Jesus made a way for His words to continue teaching the disciples even after His Resurrection and Ascension.
Dig Deeper!

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Prayer is central to our ministry as believers in Jesus as we carry eachother’s burdens and intercede for one another. Our team is honored to share the work of praying alongside you!

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April 14 - May 2, 2025 - Journey Theme #139

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The GT Weekend! ~ Slain, Week 2

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The GT Weekend! ~ Slain, Week 2

Katelyn Palmer

April 26, 2025

Alive,Discipleship,Faithfulness,Glory,Kingdom,persecution

Rest your soul through reflective journaling,
praying Scripture,
and worshiping the Creator who
longs for intimacy with each of us!

His Words Before Ours

Psalm 56:9-13

Then my enemies will retreat on the day when I call. This I know: God is for me. In God, whose word I praise, in the Lord, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mere humans do to me? I am obligated by vows to you, God; I will make my thanksgiving sacrifices to you. For you rescued me from death, even my feet from stumbling, to walk before God in the light of life.
Read More Of His Words

Reflective Prayer

Dear Yahweh,
I come to You with thanks. I am grateful for the readers washing themselves in Your Word with us each week. They are not here by accident.

Thank You, Lord, for reminding us where we came from and who we will return to; a great King over a great kingdom (1 Timothy 6:15-16); a rock upon which we may build our lives (Psalm 18:1-3, Matthew 7:24-27); an anchor against the crashing waves of life (Hebrews 6:13-20); a comforter in difficult seasons (2 Corinthians 1:3-7, John 14:26).

We are Your children, God, and You are a great, loving Father who cherishes each of us. (1 John 2:28-3:3, Luke 12:22-34)

Lord, I come to You now with supplication. Please soften the hearts of the readers joining me right now. Allow Your Word to soak into our hearts and guide us through growth and change as You mold us into Your likeness. Comfort those experiencing difficult seasons in difficult homelands. (Psalm 34:18)

Strengthen those facing persecution and hardship. Encourage those engaging lost souls who seem determined not to hear the messages of the gospel. Refresh those who feel empty. Lift those who are winning their kingdom battles as a show of Your great power.
Lord, I pray all of this in Your Son’s name, Jesus, Amen.
Pray Scripture

Worship Through Song

Reflection One

As someone who lives in the western hemisphere, it can be difficult to relate with some of the stories we have studied throughout our Journey Theme of Slain. It is a rare event to see someone lose their life because of their Christian faith in the States where we are free to not only explore Christianity, but also to openly speak on it…as women! May sisters in the west use our freedom to boldly proclaim the same gospel our fellow brothers and sisters proclaim while facing persecution!

If a book was written detailing your daily activities, thoughts, speech, and future hopes would they conclude that Jesus is your first love as they did with Esther John? If I’m being honest, I can’t say they would for me. If you have a similar response, then take heart for we are not on this journey alone! Jesus sent us a great helper and teacher in the Holy Spirit! (John 14:26)

The Holy Spirit will walk with us, teaching us how to love others, even giving us words to speak when we face a world who hates us for loving like Jesus. (Matthew 10:18-20, 1 Peter 3:8-9) The Spirit will encourage us to keep running our race of faith. (Hebrews 12:1) Greatest of all, the Holy Spirit will show us the sweet joy of trusting God in all things, so we may honor Him in life and death. (Philippians 1:20-21)
Monday & Tuesday

Reflection Two

Sometimes we pray for things we don’t receive. We pray for situations to be removed from our lives, but God lets them stand. We pray for the healing of a loved one’s body but are left watching them take their final breath. Unanswered prayers teach us to put our faith in God and wholly lean into His character over our limited perspective. They also reveal our true heart posture.

Perhaps we are praying with the wrong motives, stubbornly refusing to allow the Spirit to change our hearts. (James 4:1-3) Or perhaps, we simply cannot see the whole situation and God is working in the background beyond our purview. (Isaiah 55:8-13) Therefore, let us be emboldened to approach our circumstance with the same trusting faith displayed by Latimer and Ridley who were burned at the stake by order of Queen Mary I, “Be of good heart, brother, for God will either assuage the fury of the flame, or else strengthen us to abide it.” (The British Candle)

These words from Ridley to Latimer just before the fire was lit beneath them are a powerful reminder that we don’t follow God for what He gives or does for us, but rather for who He is. (Psalm 37:5-6, Daniel 3:8-23) He is trustworthy independently of what we face in life or death.
Wednesday & Thursday

Reflection Three

Struggle, temptation, stagnancy, and sin transcend every culture; they are shared human experiences. Don’t be discouraged when you find yourself facing these challenges and please know, dear sister or brother, you are not alone in the fight regardless of your culture and country. Persecution and hatred from the world isn’t all we share as believers, though. We also share the Great Commission, empowered by the same Spirit of God!

In order to build up the kingdom of God and make strong disciples as Jesus commanded in Matthew 28:16-20, we must become kingdom minded followers of Christ ourselves as we submit to the Spirit’s rule in our everyday lives. The Spirit will faithfully point our hearts to the cross, teaching us to deny ourselves by crucifying fleshly desires and following Jesus with joy.

This mindset begins by identifying the king Who sits on the throne of our hearts and choosing to worship Him. (Romans 12:1-2) Daily we must assess whether our actions are pursuing the world or the Lord. (Matthew 6:24) A heart posture of humility will allow us to remain on the path the Lord has laid out for us. (Proverbs 16:9)

When we seek the Lord through His Word and then live out His commands in our daily lives, we stand steady on a strong foundation able to withstand any flood, fire, or earthquake. And what could better exemplify the power and love of God to those whose houses crumbled under a faulty foundation? (Luke 6:46-49)
2-for-1 Friday

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April 14 - May 2, 2025 - Journey Theme #139
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