Good Friday and The Voice of Unfiltered Truth

So much has already happened. Years of Jesus’ selfless ministry and obedience to God have led us to the heart of why we can experience true freedom and have hope: Jesus’ death, resurrection and promise to return. 

Matthew, one of the twelve disciples and author of the first of four gospels, walks us into Good Friday with this recorded account:  When morning came, all the chief priests and the elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death. And they bound him and led him away and delivered him over to Pilate the governor.  (Matthew 27:1-2 ESV)             

Today, the internet will be filled with personal Good Friday reflections. “It is finished!” will be declared throughout the day in our homes, church services, and on social media through eye catching digital images. All are wonderful ways to be reminded of the significance of today, but there is a voice we need to be sure to tune into every day. The voice of God, our Father in Heaven, who speaks unfiltered truth into our hearts.

Is It Necessary to Read The Bible?

My morning began as it always does – reading my Bible, journaling and having a conversation with God. Being Good Friday, I read through what Jesus experienced on this day thousands of years ago. I’ve been studying the book of Matthew for several months, so I chose to read through his account of that day. 

As I read through Matthew Chapter 27, I journaled key words, phrases and moments that brought waves of emotions over me. There are a few events of that day that always leave me wincing at the reality of the physical pain and humiliation Jesus went through. My heart panged and tears welled up in my eyes as I envisioned the hatred and rejection Jesus endured. Nine pages of notes, thoughts and new reflections filled my journal today. New insight and thoughts that I will be reflecting on throughout the days ahead. 

After my personal reflection I prayed over what words God wanted me to share with you about the significance of Jesus’ suffering and crucifixion. His answer was short and sweet. Our conversation went like this:

Me: “Dear Lord, what words can I share with others today about the death and crucifixion of Jesus?”

God: “Direct them to me.”

In other words…don’t filter it, let God do the talkin’. I understood why. Just as He spoke into my heart as I read through the excruciating suffering and selfless act of His Son, God wants to speak into your heart. 

So friends, here is my encouragement for you today: Read your Bible with God and allow Him to speak into your life. Read others’ reflections and join in declaring “It is finished!”, but be sure to listen for God’s voice first. He has something special to reveal to you and the best way for Him to do that is for you to spend time with Him in His Word. Not just today, but every day. 

 

Scripture and Bible Study Tips

Here are a few passages of Scripture that tell us what Jesus went through for us today:

• Matthew 27:1-61
• Mark 15:1-47
• Luke 22:66-23:56
• John 18:28-19:30

Not sure how to study the Bible? This is a Bible study routine I’ve found to be helpful: 

1. Grab your Bible. Don’t forget a pen, paper and a highlighter. 
2. Find a quiet space, free of distractions. 
3. Say a prayer inviting God to join you. Ask Him to speak into your heart and give you new insight into His Word. 
4. Start reading! As you read, write down words, phrases or actions that stand out to you. Highlight them in your Bible. (I know, we’ve been taught our entire lives to not write in books…forget all that. Start writing and highlighting!) If you read something that causes you to think more deeply about it or leaves you asking a question  – jot that down! You can come back to your notes in the future when God reminds you about it. Trust me, He will and it will be amazing when it happens. 
5. Close your time with God in prayer. Find something to be thankful for and share with God what is on your heart. Ask God to show you why the notes you took are significant…what does He want you to be aware of or learn more about? End your prayer time but keep your communication with God going throughout your day. 

Do you have a favorite passage of Scripture you like to read on Good Friday? What Bible study tips have you found helpful in your own studies? Please feel free to share those with us in the comments. 

May you have a heart stirred by God kind of day!

Blessings,

Tricia