Day 7 of our 47-day journey with Jesus to the cross.

Author & Voice: Richard McKay

In Gethsemane, we witness the raw honesty of the Son of God as He prays, “Not as I will, but as You will” (Matthew 26:39), submitting fully to the Father’s redemptive plan. This was no passive resignation—it was costly obedience, as Jesus willingly stepped toward the cup of suffering and bore the wrath we deserved. In this episode, we are invited to see that true surrender is not the absence of struggle, but Spirit-empowered faithfulness that aligns our will with God’s and joins us to His mission in the world.

Scripture

1. Matthew 26:39

Reflection Questions

1. Where in your life are you sensing a tension between your will and God’s will? Is there something that God is asking you to surrender, change, or say “yes” to, even if it is uncomfortable or inconvenient?
2. What is your typical response when obedience seems costly or difficult? What practical ways could you practice immediate obedience instead of delayed obedience?
3. How could you practice small acts of immediate obediencethis week to strengthen your trust in God for larger moments of surrender?

Kid-Friendly Question

1. Can you think of a time when doing the right thing was hard? How did it feel to choosewhat was right anyway? How could the Holy Spirit help you make the right decisionslike the Father helped Jesus?

Spiritual Practice - Prayer

“Listening Prayer” is when we stop trying to tell God what we want from Him and we open up to what He wants to teach us or ask us to surrender. Take some time today—or a few times this week—to stop and listen to what God is asking you to do and take the steps needed to be obedient to Him. It may take you time to listen to Him, which is why tomorrow we will see how important vigilance is in our prayer life. Start today, take some time to stop and listen.

1. Prepare your space and your heart. Set aside 10–15 minutes in a quiet place. Have a journaland a pen ready, but don’t jump to writing. Begin by inviting the Holy Spirit to speak and help you listen.
2. Pray Jesus’ words slowly and reflectively: “Not as I will, but as You will.” Repeat the phrase several times. Let it become a rhythm of surrender as you breathe in and out.
3. Ask: “God, what is it that you are asking me to do? Is there a step of obedience that youare calling me to submit to even if it feels hard?” Sit in silence and listen. Don’t rush. Pay attention to anything the Spirit brings to mind—a person, a decision, a risk, a calling.
4. Write it down. Record anything you sense. It may be as simple as a conversation you’ve been avoiding, or a commitment to forgive, or a call to serve in some capacity.
5. Respond in prayer. End your time by writing or praying aloud a prayer of surrender—your own version of“not mywill, butYours.” Maybe you need to ask God to give you the strength to obey what He has asked you to...