There is no way I can imagine the horrific pain of the cross, and yet many have died such deaths, and endured even more terrible torture and kinds of death. Nor can I imagine the loneliness and betrayal of being abandoned by almost everyone dear to me, yet I have been betrayed by one dear friend, and it was unbearable! I certainly can't imagine humbling myself to any kind of servanthood or sacrifice for those who could care less or who despised me. Physical, mental, emotional pain beyond my experience - yet some on earth have experienced these things. But the most unimaginable and unbearable pain to me is the spiritual pain that Jesus experienced. As the spotless, holy Lamb of God, He took upon Himself such filthy, disgusting sin, that His Holy Father, from Whom He had never been separated, looked away. Jesus, the Creator of all the world and its people, had to walk that valley alone. And because He endured that spiritual pain, I NEVER have to endure physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual pain alone. In fact, right now I am experiencing more than one trial that Christ has made so much "sweeter" because of His very great promises to comfort, to lead, to hear my cries, and to just be there! His presence is within me and gives power, grace, and strength to endure it all- with peace and joy! The Almighty God Himself, Maker of heaven and earth, willingly chose the pain of the cross for me. He saved me from sin's eternal damnation, and He is saving me from enduring earth's torments and trials by myself.

Hallelujah, what a Savior!

Pray:

Adoration: God is holy, mighty, gracious, and merciful. Spend time declaring your love for Him and expressing your thoughts of praise and worship.

Confession: Ask God to search your heart and reveal any areas of unconfessed sin. Acknowledge these to the Lord and thank Him for His forgiveness.

Thanksgiving: Express your thankfulness to God for the blessings He has given you. When we consider that we deserve punishment because of our sinfulness, and instead God gives to us His love and mercy, our only response should be one of thankfulness.

Supplication: Petition God for wisdom. Offer prayers for your activities for this day and any special concerns you might have. Intercede for your immediate family and other relatives regarding their spiritual, emotional, and physical needs.