Understanding the True King: A Palm Sunday Reflection

April 14, 2025 | The Way of Life Church Blog

Understanding the True King: A Palm Sunday Reflection

On Palm Sunday, Jerusalem erupted in celebration as Jesus entered the city. The crowds shouted "Hosanna!" and waved palm branches, yet many didn't truly understand who they were celebrating. This disconnect between who Jesus really is and who we want Him to be continues today.

Common Misconceptions About Jesus

Many people view Jesus through different lenses that don't reflect His true nature:

• The Political King - Expected to solve national problems
• The Problem-Fixing King - Meant to make life easy
• The Genie King - Grants all our wishes
• The Instant Justice King - Punishes wrongdoers immediately
• The Rule-Free King - Requires no life changes

Why Did Jesus Choose a Donkey?

While great leaders throughout history rode powerful animals to display their strength, Jesus deliberately chose a donkey, fulfilling prophecy and demonstrating His humility. This humble king came not to give us what we want, but what we truly need: salvation from sin and death.

The True Value of Christ's Kingship

Like a parachute on a failing plane is more valuable than any comfort amenities, Jesus' salvation is worth more than any earthly benefits He could provide. The Apostle Paul understood this, declaring himself the "foremost of sinners" yet rejoicing in Christ's mercy - not because of material blessings, but because of grace itself.

What Does It Mean to Follow Jesus?

Following Jesus requires more than casual commitment. We must:

• Deny ourselves completely
• Take up our cross daily
• Follow Him even through difficulties
• Trust His leadership even when the path is challenging

Life Application

This week, examine your view of Jesus:

• Are you seeking Him for who He truly is or for what He can give you?
• In what areas have you been a "flexitarian" follower - picking and choosing when to follow?
• What would it look like to fully surrender to His kingship in every area of your life?

Challenge yourself to identify any false expectations you've placed on Jesus and realign your worship with His true identity as Savior and King. Remember, the path may be difficult, but where He leads ultimately brings life.

Questions for Reflection:

• What type of "king" have I been looking to Jesus to be?
• Am I willing to follow Jesus even when it doesn't match my preferences?
• How can I demonstrate true "Hosanna" (save us) in my daily choices this week?

Fighting Right: A Biblical Guide to Resolving Conflict in Marriage

April 2, 2025 | The Way of Life Church Blog

Fighting Right: A Biblical Guide to Resolving Conflict in Marriage

Conflict is inevitable in marriage, but how we handle it makes all the difference. While many couples take unhelpful positions during disagreements - like giving the silent treatment or keeping score - there's a biblical way to approach conflict that strengthens rather than weakens relationships.

Why Do Couples Fight?

At the root of most marital conflicts is a focus on getting our own way rather than maintaining unity. James 4:1-2 reveals that quarrels arise from unfulfilled desires and passions warring within us. When we're more concerned about our wants than our oneness, conflict escalates.

Three Keys to Handling Conflict Biblically

1. Avoid Unnecessary Conflict

Not everything needs to be a fight. Proverbs 17:14 warns that starting strife is like breaching a dam - it's better to stop before the quarrel breaks out. You don't have to accept every invitation to argue.

2. Prepare for Inevitable Conflict

Have a plan in place for when disagreements arise:

• Designate a specific place for resolving conflicts
• Create a covenant or guidelines to follow
• Agree to pray or read Scripture together first
• Focus on maintaining a spiritual mindset

3. Be a Peacemaker (PEACE)

Follow the PEACE acronym:

• Pause and Pray - Stop to seek God's help
• Engage by Listening - Seek to understand, not just respond
• Admit Your Part - Take responsibility for your contribution
• Communicate Truth in Love - Share observations, not judgments
• Extend Forgiveness - Follow Christ's example of forgiving

The Power of Forgiveness in Marriage

As Christians, we're called to forgive because we've been forgiven. Ruth Graham said, "A happy marriage is the union of two good forgivers." Our ability to forgive fl ows from understanding how Christ has forgiven us.

Life Application

This week, take one of these practical steps:

• Create a conflict resolution covenant with your spouse based on 1 Corinthians 13
• Schedule a weekly check-in to ask, "Is there anything I've done that has frustrated or hurt you?"

Questions to Consider:

• Which unhealthy conflict position do I tend to take?
• Am I more focused on being right or maintaining unity?
• How can I better reflect Christ's forgiveness in my marriage?
• What specific steps will I take this week to be a peacemaker?

Remember: Like a properly set broken bone grows stronger, conflicts handled biblically can strengthen your marriage. Choose to be a bridge-builder rather than a wall-builder in your relationship.