Finding Strength in the Nails and the Cross: Overcoming Life's Challenges

Tea Deak
Apr 29
2 min read

During the Roman Empire, crucifixion was a form of execution designated for the most serious criminals and slaves. This harsh and public punishment was intended to discourage others from committing similar crimes. The person sentenced would carry the crossbeam to the execution site, where they would be either nailed or tied to the cross, enduring a prolonged and painful death.

Within this cultural and historical context, Jesus instructs His disciples: “If anyone wishes to follow me, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever seeks to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. What benefit is it to a person to gain the entire world but lose his soul? Or what can a person offer in exchange for his soul?” - Matthew 16:24-26

Within a Christian framework, nails and the cross represent the abandonment of past sinful behaviors and the birth of a renewed, redeemed self. This symbolizes the concept of growth through suffering, which genuine followers of Christ embrace during periods of hardship and persecution.

If you are experiencing a time of diverse challenges due to illness, inner pain, or overwhelming difficulties, it signifies that you are in a "nails and the cross" period, which will ultimately lead to overcoming obstacles and attaining victory. These periods of the cross and nails in life foster spiritual growth and a victorious life through suffering and sacrifice.

Poem: “Jesus, a tent peg”

Lion of Judah,

King of brokenhearted.

He does not despise,

He welcomes a repentant heart.

His presence is not hidden,

His ears are not deaf to hear our cries.

The Father's joyful heart

Is reaching out to the lost sons.

Brace yourself for a new freedom,

With no restraints.

Sound the trumpets, light the torches,