Prayers Inspired by Jesus’ Last Words on the Cross

The Bible recorded Jesus' last words from the cross - the things He said to express His love as He willingly gave His life and they inspired me to pray. #Easter #GoodFriday #Prayer #Jesus #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings #HisGraceGirls

It’s hard to think about the reality of Jesus’ suffering and death on the cross.

I’ll never forget the first time I watched the movie, The Passion of the Christ. I’d read the Bible and knew the account well but it was always easier to imagine the scene through cleaned up artwork and Sunday School drawings.

But I don’t want to settle for images that make me feel better.

So I’m taking to spend more time at the foot of the cross, humbly reflecting and praying to the One who suffered pure torture to endure my punishment.

I’d love it if you would join me.

Prayers Inspired by Jesus’ Last Words on the Cross

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.”
Luke 23:34

Lord Jesus, it’s hard for me to imagine myself in the crowd shouting, “Crucify Him!” I want to believe I would have followed You, that I would have been standing with John, your mother, and Mary Magdeleine … but I know the truth. You hung on that cross because of me.

My sins condemned You and yet, through Your pain, You asked the Father to forgive me. I am humbled and overwhelmed by Your gracious love. Thank you isn’t enough. Today, I give you my all as I prayerfully meditate on Your love and how You willingly gave Your all for me. Amen.

And Jesus replied, “I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
Luke 23:43

Jesus, Like the men being crucified beside You, I deserve to be punished for my sins.

I want to believe my sins aren’t that bad but all sin, any sin, my sin deserves punishment. Yet, You not only suffered and died for my disobedience but You reclaimed me and promise me a forever future with You in heaven.

I didn’t earn it. I don’t deserve it. You simply gave it.

So once again, I fall at the foot of the cross asking for Your forgiveness through tears of gratitude and a heart full of love as I anticipate the day You will come and take me home to live with You forever. (John 14:3) Thank you, Jesus! Amen.

When Jesus saw His mother standing there
beside the disciple He loved, He said to her,
“Dear woman, here is your son.”
And He said to this disciple,
“Here is your mother.”
And from then on this disciple
took her into his home.
John 19:26–27

Jesus, Your tender words to Your mother and John touch my heart and remind me that You care about even the smallest details of our lives. You fed the hungry and healed the sick both physically and spiritually. You gave sight to those who could not see and sound to those who could not hear.

Nothing in my life goes beyond Your attention, care, and compassion. Lord Jesus, when my days are distressing and I feel like no one understands … You do!

You endured the pain and problems of this world. You experienced the consequences of sin without ever sinning Yourself. Thank you, for allowing me to bring it my struggles to You and for comforting and helping me in times of need. Amen.

Jesus called out with a loud voice,
“Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?”
which means
“My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?”
Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34

Oh, dearest Jesus, this must have been the most difficult thing to endure. I sometimes wonder if this was what caused You to sweat drops of blood as You asked the Father to “remove this cup of suffering?” I can’t imagine how it must have felt to anticipate all You knew You would happen as You endured the separation my sin deserved.

David prophesied these words generations earlier and like every prophesy promised … You faithfully fulfilled it. Jesus, I believe You are the Christ, the Son of God! You suffered the unimaginable to save me.

Simply saying “thank you” is not enough. I give my life to You. I give You my all. By Your grace, may I faithfully live for Your glory as I declare the truth of Your love. Amen.

Jesus knew that His mission was now finished,
and to fulfill Scripture He said,
“I am thirsty.”
John 19:28

Jesus, You spoke these three simple words so Your people might be assured that You understand our humanity.

You were tempted, yet You never sinned. You experienced life through Your senses just like I do. You laughed and cried. You felt anger, joy, and love. Oh, how You love.

Thank you for allowing me to know that nothing in my life is beyond Your understanding. When I am sad and lonely, rejected and betrayed, uncomfortable and tired … You understand. I can bring every burden, fear, and frustration to You confident that You will keep Your promise to help me carry it. (Matthew 11:28) Big or small, it matters to You. I matter to You. Thank you. Amen.

He said,
“It is finished!”
Then He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.
John 19:30

Was this Your victory shout! Jesus,

You accomplished everything You came to do.

You testified to the truth, proclaimed the Good News, and fulfilled the Law and the words of the Prophets. You showed people how very much God loves them. You gave Yourself as a sacrifice to save people from their sins. And You died to give us a forever life with You in heaven.

I can imagine You gathering every bit of strength You had to shout, “It is finished!” Victory! The plan promised in the Garden was accomplished and by Your grace … it is well with my soul. Thank you! Amen.

Then Jesus shouted,
“Father, I entrust my spirit into your hands!”
And with those words, He breathed His last.
Luke 23:46

No one took Your life from You. You gave it willingly for sinners … like me.

Perfect love!

Please, Jesus, help me to love like You. My heart’s desire is to “love You, my God, (Father, Jesus, and Holy Spirit) with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. I want to love my neighbor as I love myself.” I want to obediently follow where You lead and carry out Your will as You reveal it to me. I believe I can do whatever You ask of me and that You will give me the strength I need. (Philippians 4:13)

Lord Jesus, I surrender this day to You. Help me. Strengthen me. And by Your grace, give me all I need to live this day and every day for Your glory. Amen.

As I read and reread Jesus’ last words on the cross, I am always overwhelmed by His love.

Whatever is going on in your life and mine today … it is comforting to know that we can come to the foot of the cross and give it all to Jesus. We can be assured that by grace nothing in the world can separate us from God’s love given in and through Jesus.

Paul wrote:

I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38–39

It’s easy to let busyness distract me and problems discourage me but today I’m setting everything aside to sit at the foot of the cross. I’m stopping to reflect on Jesus’ last words of love and I’m resting in the hope of His miraculous life-giving promises.

Promises that assure me that even as I reflect on Good Friday, as I pause and pray … the Good News is – Sunday is coming.

Jesus’ Resurrection is a reality and so is ours!

Thank you so much for joining me today.
And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

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Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

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Father, It is Finished – Please Forgive Me

4 / 19 / 194 / 19 / 19

It is finished. How can we call it Good Friday? Because Jesus' sacrifice that day is Good News for the lost and broken ... people like you and me. #GoodFriday #Easter #Jesus #CountingMyBlessings

I have a hard time getting my brain around all that this day we call “Good Friday” embraces.

When I think about the betrayals and denials, trials and lashes, a crown of thorns and crowds shouting “crucify Him” … all pieces of the day that Jesus suffered and died.

How can we call it … Good Friday?

Because Jesus’ sacrifice that day is Good News for the lost and broken … for people like you and me.

People who need forgiveness. So, I’m praying…

Father, It is Finished – Please Forgive Me

Father, Your Word says…

This is real love—not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.
1 John 4:10

Your love overwhelms me … humbles me.

I am so undeserving of Your grace and mercy.

I imagine myself in the worst parts of that day. Oh, it’s easier to think that I would have been standing with John and the Marys … that I would have faithfully followed Your Son to the foot of the cross.

But I wonder, would I have been strong enough or would I have followed the crowd? Would I have been stood strong on Your truth or listened to church leaders, the ones with power and prestige.

That’s how I end up overwhelmed…

Because of Your amazing grace and unfailing love You suffered and died for them, for me!

You sent Your Son to suffer and die for…

Pharisees and Sadducees
High Priests and Temple Leaders
Caiaphas, Herod, and Pontius Pilate
Soldiers and Guards
Betrayers and Deniers
Tax-collectors, Adulterers, and Cheaters
Sinners

People like me!

So today, as I approach the foot of the cross and hear His words, “It is finished!” And my heart and mind cry out, “Father, forgive me!”

I’m so sorry!

I believe Your Word that says…

Everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.
Romans 3:23

And…

The wages of sin is death.
Romans 6:23

I believe that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, that…

There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved.
Acts 4:12

I believe that by You grace…

I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.
Galatians 2:20

And that I have been made right with You, Father, by placing my faith in Jesus Christ. That this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. (Based on Romans 3:22)

I trust Your promise…

If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.
Romans 10:9–10

And Jesus promise…

I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die.
John 11:25–26

Which is why I’m overwhelmed, Father.

It is by Your grace that I am saved. Grace given to me through the undeserved suffering and death of Your Son, and my Savior, Jesus.

Thank you!

Because of Jesus’ “It is finished!” Because of Good Friday, I can say, “Please forgive me!”

And hear Him say, “Your sins are forgiven.”

Thank you, Father! That is Good News!

Thank you so much for joining me today.
And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment.

If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

I’m asking God to bless you today!

7 Prayers Inspired by Jesus Words on the Cross

3 / 25 / 183 / 26 / 18

It’s hard to think about the reality of Jesus’ suffering and death on the cross.

I’ll never forget the first time I watched The Passion of the Christ. I’d read Scripture and knew the story well but it was always easier to imagine the scene through cleaned up artwork and Sunday School drawings.

I don’t want to let myself settle for images that make me feel better. So I’m taking this week to spend more time at the foot of the cross and humbly pray to the God who suffered pure torture to endure the punishment I deserved.

I would love it if you would join me.

7 Prayers Inspired by Jesus Words on the Cross

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them,
for they don’t know what they are doing.”
Luke 23:34

Dearest Jesus, It’s hard for me to picture myself in the crowd shouting, “Crucify Him!” I want to believe I would have stood with John, your mother, and Mary Magdeleine … but I know the truth. You hung on that cross because of me. My sins condemned you and yet, through pain, You asked Your Father to forgive me. I am humbled and overwhelmed by Your gracious love. Thank you isn’t enough. Today, I give you my all as I prayerfully ponder how You gave Your all for me. Amen.

And Jesus replied, “I assure you,
today you will be with me in paradise.”
Luke 23:43

Jesus, Like those being crucified beside You, I deserve to be punished for my sins. I want to believe my sins aren’t that bad but all sin, any sin, my sin deserves to be punished. Yet, You not only suffered my punishment but You promise me a forever future with You in heaven. I can’t earn it. I don’t deserve it. You simply give it. Once again, I fall at the foot of the cross asking for Your forgiveness through tears of gratitude and a heart full of love and look forward to the day when You will come and take me home to paradise. (John 14:3) Thank you, Jesus! Amen.

When Jesus saw His mother standing there
beside the disciple He loved, He said to her,
“Dear woman, here is your son.”And He said to this disciple,
“Here is your mother.”
And from then on this disciple
took her into his home.
John 19:26–27

Jesus, Your tender words to Your mother and John touch my heart and remind me that You care about every detail of our lives. Your ministry included feeding the hungry and healing the sick both physically and spiritually. You gave sight to those who could not see and sound to those who could not hear. Nothing in my life goes beyond Your care and compassion. Lord Jesus, when my days are hard and I feel like no one understands … You do! You’ve been here. You’ve lived it. Thank you, for encouraging me to bring it all my struggles to You and for offering to help and comfort me in times of need. Amen.

Jesus called out with a loud voice,
“Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?”
which means
“My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?”
Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34

Oh, dearest Jesus, this must have been the most difficult thing to endure. Was this what caused You to sweat drops of blood as You asked the Father to “remove this cup of suffering?” I can’t imagine how it must have felt to anticipate all You knew You would endure.

David prophesied these words generations earlier and like every prophesy promised … You faithfully accomplished it. Jesus, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God! I give my life to You. By Your grace, may I live each day for Your glory and proclaim Your name to all who will listen. Amen.

Jesus knew that His mission was now finished,
and to fulfill Scripture He said,
“I am thirsty.”
John 19:28

Jesus, You spoke these three simple words so that Your people might know and believe You can identify completely with our humanity. You were tempted, yet You never sinned. You experienced life through Your senses just like I do. You laughed and cried. You felt anger, joy, and love. Oh, how You love. Thank you, Jesus, for allowing me to know that nothing in my life is beyond Your understanding. When I am sad and lonely, rejected and betrayed, uncomfortable and tired … You understand. I can come to You, knowing You will help me carry my burden of the day, big or small. Amen.

He said,
“It is finished!”
Then He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.
John 19:30

Was this Your victory shout! Jesus, You did everything You came to do. You testified to the truth. Proclaimed the Good News. Fulfilled the Law and the words of the Prophets. You showed people how very much God loves them. You gave Yourself as a sacrifice to save people from their sins. And You died to give God’s people eternal life. I can imagine You gathering every bit of strength You had to shout, “It is finished!” Victory! The plan promised in the Garden was accomplished and by Your grace … it is well with my soul. Thank you! Amen.

Then Jesus shouted,
“Father, I entrust my spirit into your hands!”
And with those words, He breathed His last.
Luke 23:46

No one took Your life from You. You gave it willingly for sinners … like me. Perfect love! Please Jesus, help me to love like You. My heart’s desire is to “love You, my God, (Father, Jesus, and Holy Spirit) with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. I want to love my neighbor as I love myself.” I want to obediently follow where You lead and carry out Your will as You reveal it to me. I believe I can do whatever You ask of me when You give me strength. (Philippians 4:13)

Lord Jesus, I surrender this day to You. Help me. Strengthen me. And by Your grace, give me all I need to live this day for Your glory. Amen.

As I read and reread Jesus words on the cross, I am overwhelmed by His love.

Whatever is going on in your life today … give it to Jesus. He wants you to know that by God’s grace nothing in the world can separate you from God’s love given in and through Jesus.

Paul wrote:

I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38–39

It’s so easy for me to let busyness distract me and problems discourage me but today I’m setting everything aside to sit at the foot of the cross. I’m listening to Jesus and resting His miraculous life-giving grace.

How blessed we are to KNOW that as we focus on Jesus suffering and death – Sunday is coming. His resurrection is a reality and so is ours!

Additional Posts for Holy Week and Easter

Jesus and How to Know if You Have Righteous Anger

Important Things You Need to Know about Foot Washing

An Important Good Friday Question – How Do You See Jesus?

15 of the Best Quotes to Celebrate Jesus’ Resurrection

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and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

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An Important Good Friday Question – How Do You See Jesus?

4 / 14 / 174 / 14 / 17

As you focus your heart and mind on Jesus suffering and death today…

I want to ask – an important Good Friday question.

How do you see Him?

Pleading and praying in the Garden of Gethsemane?

“My Father, if it is possible, do not give me this cup of suffering. But do what you want, not what I want.” Matthew 26:39

Broken and bleeding on the cross?

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them because they don’t know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34

Preaching and teaching followers on a hillside?

“They are blessed who realize their spiritual poverty, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to them.” Matthew 5:3

Being baptized in the Jordan River?

As soon as Jesus was baptized, He came up out of the water. Then heaven opened, and He saw God’s Spirit coming down on Him like a dove. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love, and I am very pleased with Him.” Matthew 3:16–17

As an almost teen, amazing teachers in the Temple?

They found Jesus sitting in the Temple with the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. All who heard Him were amazed at His understanding and answers. Luke 2:46–47

Giving life to a dead man?

He went up and touched the coffin, and the people who were carrying it stopped. Jesus said, “Young man, I tell you, get up!” Luke 7:14

Forgiving and giving hope to a Samaritan woman?

The woman said, “I know that the Messiah is coming.” (Messiah is the One called Christ.) “When the Messiah comes, he will explain everything to us.” Then Jesus said, “I am He—I, the one talking to you.” John 4:25–26

In the street triumphantly entering Jerusalem past cheering crowds?

So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet Jesus, shouting, “Praise God! God bless the One who comes in the name of the Lord! God bless the King of Israel!” John 12:13

Welcoming and blessing playful children?

Then Jesus took the children in His arms, put his hands on them, and blessed them. John 10:16

Protecting a woman caught in adultery?

He raised up and said, “Anyone here who has never sinned can throw the first stone at her.” John 8:7

Surrounded by hurting ill people waiting for miracles?

But the people learned where Jesus went and followed Him. He welcomed them and talked with them about God’s kingdom and healed those who needed to be healed. Luke 9:11

Washing His disciples’ feet?

Then He poured water into a bowl and began to wash the followers’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around Him. John 13:5

Feeding 5,000 with 5 loaves of bread and a couple fish?

All the people ate and were satisfied. Then the followers filled twelve baskets with the leftover pieces of food. There were about five thousand men there who ate, not counting women and children. Matthew 14:20:21

Transfigured and talking to Moses and Elijah?

While they watched, Jesus’ appearance was changed. His clothes became shining white, whiter than any person could make them. Then Elijah and Moses appeared to them, talking with Jesus. Mark 9:2–4

Toppling tables in the Temple courtyard?

Jesus went into the Temple and threw out all the people who were buying and selling there. He turned over the tables of those who were exchanging different kinds of money, and He upset the benches of those who were selling doves. Jesus said to all the people there, “It is written in the Scriptures, ‘My Temple will be called a house of prayer.’ But you are changing it into a ‘hideout for robbers.’” Matthew 29:12–13

Greeting Mary as she weeps for her brother?

When Jesus saw Mary crying and the Jews who came with her also crying, He was upset and was deeply troubled. John 11:33

Laughing with friends at the Wedding in Cana?

There was a wedding in the town of Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, and Jesus and His followers were also invited to the wedding. John 2:1–2

Resurrected from death?

The angel said to the women, “Don’t be afraid. I know that you are looking for Jesus, who has been crucified. He is not here. He has risen from the dead as He said He would. Come and see the place where His body was. Matthew 28:5–6

Showing His hands and side to Thomas?

“Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see, because a ghost does not have a living body as you see I have.” Luke 24:39

Calming the storm or walking on the sea?

Jesus answered, “Why are you afraid? You don’t have enough faith.” Then Jesus got up and gave a command to the wind and the waves, and it became completely calm. Matthew 8:26

Between three and six o’clock in the morning, Jesus came to them, walking on the water. Matthew 14:25

Ascending into heaven?

After the Lord Jesus said these things to His followers, He was carried up into heaven, and He sat at the right side of God. Mark 16:19

Sitting on the throne?

Then the twenty-four elders bow down before the One who sits on the throne, and they worship him who lives forever and ever. They put their crowns down before the throne and say:

“You are worthy, our Lord and God,
    to receive glory and honor and power,
because you made all things.
    Everything existed and was made,
    because you wanted it.” Revelations 4:10–11

Sitting beside you?

“I will be with you always, even until the end of this age.” Matthew 28:20

How do you see Him?

For almost 2000 years people have tried to capture Him in words, art, and film. But outside of the words of Scripture, the important thing is not how He is portrayed, but how you and I see Him.

It may vary, depending on the time, place, your needs or circumstances . . . but no question is more important. Today is the perfect day to ask yourself…

How do I see Jesus?

As the Messiah?

Then the high priest asked Him, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?” Jesus said, “I Am. And you will see the Son of Man seated in the place of power at God’s right hand and coming on the clouds of heaven.” Mark 14:61-62

As the Son of God?

Jesus did many other miracles in the presence of His followers that are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Then, by believing, you may have life through His name. John 20:30–31

As the Light of the World?

Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” John 8:12

As the Good Shepherd?

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices His life for the sheep.” John 10:11

As Life?

Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. John 11:25

As Truth?

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. John 14:6

May your weekend be filled with His blessings and love as you prayerfully ponder who He is to you. May you see Him as the lover of your soul. The One who gave Himself to give you life . . . abundant life now and forever.

Please join me again next week for Faith ‘n Friends Link Party. I’m taking a sabbath from it this week as we focus on Jesus sacrifice and victory.

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

I LOVE hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

And if this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, or coworker . . . or can use the links below. Thank you and God bless.

Praying Through The Stations of the Cross

4 / 18 / 142 / 24 / 18

On Good Friday followers of Jesus focus their hearts and minds on the cross.
In 1991, Pope John Paul II revised the 14 stations of the cross to align with
events as they are found in Scripture.

Walk the steps of Jesus, our Lord and Savior, through the stations of the cross . . . remember that He loves you so completely if you were the only one who needed His sacrifice He would have done it all just for you.

1. Jesus Prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane – Mark 14:32–41

Lord Jesus, Like your disciples we sleep. You anticipate suffering and death. You ask us to watch and pray, but we’re tired, caught up in our circumstances. Weighted by the world, we sleep. You cry out. You sweat drops of blood. You plead with the Father. You surrender to His will. You make our greatest need Your priority. You give everything. For us. For me. Thanks and praise forever. Amen.

2. Jesus Betrayed by Judas and Arrested – Matthew 26:47–56

Lord Jesus, Friends still betray friends. People still run away and turn their heads to protect themselves. Forgive us. May we boldly stand for truth. May we stand strong in faith. You are the Rock of our Salvation. Help us follow You wherever You lead even when the path is hard and we’re afraid. Amen.

3. Jesus Condemned by the Sanhedrin – Luke 22:66–71

Lord Jesus, People lie. You’re condemned. Forgive us. Still today, we fail to speak the truth about You. Forgive us. We fail to profess you before others. Forgive us. Help us to forgive those who lie about us. Give us strength to forgive as You forgive. Help us trust and love You, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Amen.

4. Jesus Denied by Peter – John 18:15–18,25–27

Lord Jesus, Like Peter, we boast that we will follow You through anything, but that’s before we’re afraid or the struggle is overwhelming. It is only through Holy Spirit strength that we have what we need when we’re confronted and afraid. That is our prayer. Help us. We don’t want “deny You before men.” (Matthew 10:32–33) We pray to have courage to proclaim the wonderful things You have done for us and glorify Your Holy name. Amen.

5. Jesus Judged by Pilate – John 19:1–16

Lord Jesus, We’re ashamed as we see ourselves in the crowd shouting “Crucify Him.” Like Pilate we wash our hands and look away when others condemn or deny You. Forgive us. Help us. We need You. Give us the courage to boldly tell others of Your love. Amen.

6. Jesus Beaten and Crowned with Thorns – John 19:1–3

Lord Jesus, It breaks our hearts that You were tortured and abused for us. You took our pain, our shame, our punishment. Forgive us. We are so sorry. Each time we sin through defiant disobedience or through lack of obedience we place our mark on Your punishment. A punishment we deserved. Forgive us. Amen.

7. Jesus Carried His Cross – John 19:17

Lord Jesus, Broken and beaten forced to carry the instrument of Your death. You said that Your followers must be willing to carry their cross. (Luke 9:23) And around the world believers are abused and martyred for following You. Please give us everything we need to remain faithful, to carry whatever You allow. Please help us. We need You. Amen.

8. Jesus Helped by Simon the Cyrene to Carry His Cross – Mark 15:21

Lord Jesus, Thank you for people who help. Simon was not among Your close followers. We don’t even know if He knew You, but he carried. When You ask us to come along side and help those beaten and abused to carry their burdens … help us. Give us courage, strength, and compassion. Amen.

9. Jesus Addressed the Women of Jerusalem – Luke 23:28–31

Lord Jesus, We cry out. There is so much pain. So much loss. Hurting hearts need You. We cry over Your suffering. We cry over a suffering world. Comfort us and help us to comfort and help one another. Amen.

10. Jesus Nailed to the Cross – Mark 15:23–25

Lord Jesus, It feels too hard to watch. We want to look away. Excruciating pain and humiliation. Our punishment. Our pain. Our shame. We are so sorry. We’re guilty. Thank you is not enough. May we live for You in humble service, the One who gave it all to give us life. We adore You. We worship You. We give You praise forever and ever. Amen.

11. Jesus Promised His Kingdom to a Thief – Luke 23:39–43

Lord Jesus, You made a promise, “Today you will be with me in paradise.” A powerful promise to a dying thief. A powerful promise for humble sinners who have received Your gift of redeeming grace. Death gives way to life eternal. Thank you for giving us this amazing promise full of hope. Amen.

12. Jesus Provided for His Mother – John 19:25–27

Lord Jesus, Thank you for showing us that You care about our lives by providing for Your mother. You lived and died not for our future hope alone, but for every day we live and breathe. Triune God, Father, Son, and Spirit . . . You provide and care for every need. Thank you. We love you. Amen.

13. Jesus Died on the Cross – John 19:28–30

Lord Jesus, You willingly gave Your life. You experienced death. You felt excruciating pain and suffering. You suffered death. Even as we face death, we are not alone. You are with us. You are full of love and compassion as You give us strength and hope. You gave Yourself into the Father’s hands and as we wait for Sunday, we remember – not as something we’ve heard about . . . but as if we were there. And we give You thanks and praise. Amen.

14. Jesus Laid in a Tomb – Matthew 27:57–61

Lord Jesus, You rested in a borrowed tomb as Your followers gathered in fear and confusion. It must have felt like the end. But the tomb could not hold You. It was temporary. And through this truth we wait and anticipate the victory that begins our eternal celebration. Thank you, Jesus. Amen.

God bless you this Holy Friday as you remember how much God loves you.

The Father who gave His Son.

For this is how God loved the world: He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

The Son who gave His life.

When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Romans 5:6

The Spirit who helps us to trust, love, and obey.

And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. Romans 8:26a

Praise God! You and I are blessed by His grace with all we need to live in His love.

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A Hammer and Nails

3 / 29 / 1312 / 27 / 13

A hammer and nails . . . so common in the life of a carpenter. Did Jesus know the role they would play in his work of redemption?

A crown of thorns . . . simple stems from His creation. Did the king of the universe know they would cause Him so much pain?

Betrayal, beatings, and shouts for crucifixion filling the air . . . men and women created in His image rejected Him. Did He know in advance how they would betray Him?