Day 15 of our 47-day journey with Jesus to the cross.

Author & Voice: Chase Akin

When Peter draws his sword in Gethsemane, it seems like courage—but Jesus’ command to “put your sword back in its place” exposes a deeper misunderstanding about the nature of His Kingdom. The way of Christ is not advanced by self-reliant strength or anxious control, but by trust in the Father’s sovereign plan, even when it leads through suffering. In this episode, we confront our instinct to protect God with our own strategies and learn instead to surrender our swords, rest in His power, and follow the path of obedient faith.

Scripture

1. Matthew 26:51-52

Reflection Questions

1. Where in your life are you reaching for the sword instead of trusting God’s protection? What “kingdoms” are you trying to defend that God hasn’t asked you to fight for?
2. How does your typical response to crisis reveal what you really believe about God’s power and timing?

Kid-Friendly Question

1. When something scary happens, do you try to fix it yourself or ask for help? How can we remember that God is always bigger than our problems?

Spiritual Practice - Confession & Fasting

As you fast today, pay attention to what “swords” you instinctively reach for when discomfort hits. Use these confession prompts:

1. Write down three areas where you’ve been “stepping in front of God’s plan” with your own solutions. Confess specifically: “God, I’ve been trying to protect/control instead of trusting You with it.”