Easter is more than a historical event—it is the great exchange, the ultimate revelation of God’s love and grace through the death and resurrection of Jesus. Through this plan, take time to reflect on the depth of Christ’s love and what it truly means to walk in the fullness of his salvation in our daily lives.
DAY 1: THE GREAT EXCHANGE
2 Corinthians 5:21 (NET)
“God made the one who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that in him we would become the righteousness of God.”
From the very beginning, sin has separated people from God (Romans 3:23). — Because God is perfectly holy, our sins could not keep us in God’s presence. Think of it this way: sin keeps us going our own way instead of walking in a relationship with God. And the longer we choose sin, the bond we have with sin is strengthened. Sin always has consequences, even if we don’t see them right away.
But in his great love, God came down to earth in human form through Jesus Christ to make a way for us to be restored back to him. Though completely sinless, he entered our broken world and carried the weight of our sin when he died on the cross – as a revelation of God’s self-giving love. His resurrection broke sin’s grip over us, setting us free from its power and defeating its greatest consequence: death. This was an act of mercy, grace, and love. God did not ignore sin, but instead, he provided a way for the power of sin to be broken so we could be set free.
When we make a decision to believe in what Jesus did on the cross and follow him, we are no longer separated from God. We are brought back into a relationship with him—no longer slaves to sin, but now children of God.
Questions to reflect on:
- How do you see God’s love working through Jesus’ sacrifice?
- What does it mean for you personally that Jesus bore your sin and suffering?
- How does knowing that Jesus defeated death change how you view life and eternity?
Prayer:
Father, thank you for the depth of your love — a love that restores, redeems, and renews. Jesus, you willingly took on my sin, not out of duty but out of love, so that I could be free. Help me walk in the righteousness you have given me—not out of obligation, but out of an understanding that you desire for me to live a full and free life, forever in your presence. Amen.
Scripture:
Romans 3:23 (NET):
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
Hebrews 2:14-15 (NET):
“Therefore, since the children share in flesh and blood, he likewise shared in their humanity, so that through death he could destroy the one who holds the power of death (that is, the devil), and set free those who were held in slavery all their lives by their fear of death.”
John 10:10 (NET)
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come so that they may have life, and may have it abundantly.”
DAY 2: HE BORE OUR SUFFERING
Isaiah 53:4-5 (NET)
“But he lifted up our illnesses, he carried our pain; even though we thought he was being punished, attacked by God, and afflicted for something he had done. He was wounded because of our rebellious deeds, crushed because of our sins; he endured punishment that made us well; because of his wounds we have been healed.”
Jesus did not suffer for himself — he suffered for us. Every wound he bore, every insult he endured, and every moment of agony was not for his own sake but for ours. His suffering was not divine punishment upon him, but rather, an act of ultimate love — God stepping into human pain, experiencing the depths of our separation and brokenness so that we could be healed.
Many misunderstood his suffering, assuming it was God’s judgment on him. Even those who watched him die mocked him, thinking he was cursed by God (Isaiah 53:4). But in reality, his suffering was the full expression of God’s love, not his wrath. He was pierced for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities (Isaiah 53:5). The pain he carried was not his own — it was ours.
Death is not just the end of physical life it’s also the separation from the source of life: God himself. Jesus willingly experienced that separation so we wouldn’t have to. On the cross, he cried out, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken Me?” (Matthew 27:46). At that moment, he stepped into the full weight of human separation from God, bearing the consequence of sin that was rightfully ours.
His suffering was not about appeasing an angry Father but about absorbing sin’s consequence — so that we could be reconciled, restored, and made whole. If God did not withhold his own Son from us, how much more will he give us everything we need in him? (Romans 8:32)
The suffering and death of Jesus was not meaningless—on the contrary, it means everything to those who put their faith in him. He took our pain so we could receive his peace. He endured our wounds so we could be healed. And because he overcame, we are no longer bound by sin, death, or separation from God.
Questions to reflect on:
- In what ways can you live in response to the healing, restoration, and peace that Jesus offers?
- Romans 8:32 says God did not withhold his own Son from us. How does this truth impact your trust in God’s provision and love?
Prayer:
Lord, I receive the healing and wholeness you purchased for me through Jesus. Thank you for bearing my suffering, for taking upon yourself what I could not conquer on my own. Help me to trust in your unfailing love every day. Amen.
Scripture:
Isaiah 53:4-5 (NET):
“But he lifted up our illnesses, he carried our pain; even though we thought he was being punished, attacked by God, and afflicted for something he had done. He was wounded because of our rebellious deeds, crushed because of our sins; he endured punishment that made us well; because of his wounds we have been healed.”
Matthew 27:46 (NET):
“About three o’clock Jesus shouted with a loud voice, ‘Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?’ that is, ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’”
Romans 8:32 (NET):
“Indeed, he who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, freely give us all things?”
DAY 3: FREEDOM
Luke 4:18-19 (NET):
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and the regaining of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
Sin is a reality in the world we live in. We experience its consequences daily, feeling its grip in different ways in this broken world. For us, the consequences of sin in the world can be seen in negative experiences we may have gone through in the past, injustice and evil around us, or wrestling with temptation in our own lives. The good news is that Jesus overcame the power of sin, giving us the opportunity to live in freedom from the sin that easily ensnares us. The freedom Jesus offers is not necessarily going to change the evil around us but it will change our hearts to resist what is unholy and walk in the love and light of Jesus. Living in Jesus’ freedom allows us to experience the reality of his kingdom in a broken and corrupt world.
Everyone faces temptation and everyone will have a decision to make: whether to give in to temptation which is sin or to choose righteousness—the way of life that Jesus demonstrated.
In Luke 4:18-19, Jesus declares that he was anointed to proclaim good news and to set free those who are oppressed. Before following Jesus,, sin ruled our lives, but now we have Jesus and by the power of his Holy Spirit, we can resist temptation and walk in the freedom he has given us.
The reason this is possible is because of the Holy Spirit who now lives within us. He is the one who gives us the ability to say no and to resist temptation. Scripture reminds us in Philippians 2:13, “For it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” The Holy Spirit is our helper, and he gives us not only the strength but also the willingness to do what pleases God—which is to live with a pure heart and resist evil.
Today, remember that Christ has already won the victory. Sin has no power over you. Temptation will come, but you have a helper whose name is the Holy Spirit. He is within you, helping you choose righteousness and live in his freedom. As you understand this truth, let it be the motivation that leads you to overcome what has tempted you in the past. Trust that God is able to help you. You are no longer a slave, but a victor over sin.
Questions to reflect on:
How can you live in response to the freedom that Jesus has given you?
What does Jesus’ victory over sin mean for your daily struggles with temptation?
Prayer:
God I thank you that you’ve set me free from sin. Give me grace to overcome the struggles I face today and let me live righteously as you’ve called me to do. Amen.
Scripture:
Philippians 2:13 (NET):
“For the one bringing forth in you both the desire and the effort—for the sake of his good pleasure—is God.”
Luke 4:18-19 (NET):
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and the regaining of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
Matthew 5:13-14 (NET):
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
Salvation isn’t just something we receive—it’s something we live out daily. As the salt of the earth and the light of the world (Matthew 5:13-14), we are called to walk in the new life he has given us, bringing his kingdom here and now through faith, love, and integrity.
Jesus didn’t just rescue us from sin, he brought us into a new life with him here and now (John 17:3). Eternal life isn’t just about being in heaven one day in the future—it’s about bringing heaven on earth and walking with God today. Because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, we are forgiven, made new (2 Corinthians 5:17), and restored to our relationship with God. We are called to work out our salvation, not to earn it, but to walk in the fullness of what God has already given us (Philippians 2:12). This means surrendering daily, trusting him in the highs and lows, and letting him change us from the inside out. It’s about learning to live by his Spirit (John 14:26), making choices that reflect his heart, and becoming more like Jesus every day.
That’s why Jesus calls us the salt of the earth and the light of the world (Matthew 5:13-14). Salt brings out the best in everything, and light pushes back the dark. We’re called to bring the goodness of God wherever we go. And let’s be real, that’s not always easy. It’s easier to conform to the world than to live counter-culturally. It’s easier to gossip than to speak life, easier to hold a grudge than to forgive, and easier to compromise than to stand firm. But we don’t do this in our own strength. The Holy Spirit is in us, empowering us to live differently (John 14:26). Being salt and light means choosing faith when fear is loud, choosing kindness when negativity is normal, and choosing integrity even when no one’s watching. It means living in a way that makes people wonder why we have so much peace, joy, and hope. It means showing up with love, speaking life, and living in a way that points people to Jesus. Salvation isn’t just a decision we made once, it was an invitation to a whole new way of living.
Questions to reflect on:
How does knowing that salvation is not just a past event but something we live out daily change the way you approach your everyday life, relationships, and choices?
What areas of your life feel the hardest to surrender to God? Where do you need the Holy Spirit’s help to live differently?
Who in your life needs to experience the love, grace, and truth of Jesus this week? How can you intentionally be salt and light to them?
Prayer:
Jesus, help me live like you at all times. I want to be your hands and feet in the world, so people can come to know you. Help me be the salt and light to the world around me. Amen.
Scripture:
Matthew 5:13-14 (NET):
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
John 17:3 (NET):
“Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”
2 Corinthians 5:17 (NET):
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
Philippians 2:12-13 (NET):
“Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose.”
John 14:26 (NET):
“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and will cause you to remember everything I said to you.”
DAY 4: LIVING OUT SALVATION
Matthew 5:13-14 (NET):
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
Salvation isn’t just something we receive—it’s something we live out daily. As the salt of the earth and the light of the world (Matthew 5:13-14), we are called to walk in the new life he has given us, bringing his kingdom here and now through faith, love, and integrity.
Jesus didn’t just rescue us from sin, he brought us into a new life with him here and now (John 17:3). Eternal life isn’t just about being in heaven one day in the future—it’s about bringing heaven on earth and walking with God today. Because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, we are forgiven, made new (2 Corinthians 5:17), and restored to our relationship with God. We are called to work out our salvation, not to earn it, but to walk in the fullness of what God has already given us (Philippians 2:12). This means surrendering daily, trusting him in the highs and lows, and letting him change us from the inside out. It’s about learning to live by his Spirit (John 14:26), making choices that reflect his heart, and becoming more like Jesus every day.
That’s why Jesus calls us the salt of the earth and the light of the world (Matthew 5:13-14). Salt brings out the best in everything, and light pushes back the dark. We’re called to bring the goodness of God wherever we go. And let’s be real, that’s not always easy. It’s easier to conform to the world than to live counter-culturally. It’s easier to gossip than to speak life, easier to hold a grudge than to forgive, and easier to compromise than to stand firm. But we don’t do this in our own strength. The Holy Spirit is in us, empowering us to live differently (John 14:26). Being salt and light means choosing faith when fear is loud, choosing kindness when negativity is normal, and choosing integrity even when no one’s watching. It means living in a way that makes people wonder why we have so much peace, joy, and hope. It means showing up with love, speaking life, and living in a way that points people to Jesus. Salvation isn’t just a decision we made once, it was an invitation to a whole new way of living.
Questions to reflect on:
How does knowing that salvation is not just a past event but something we live out daily change the way you approach your everyday life, relationships, and choices?
What areas of your life feel the hardest to surrender to God? Where do you need the Holy Spirit’s help to live differently?
Who in your life needs to experience the love, grace, and truth of Jesus this week? How can you intentionally be salt and light to them?
Prayer:
Jesus, help me live like you at all times. I want to be your hands and feet in the world, so people can come to know you. Help me be the salt and light to the world around me. Amen.
Scripture:
Matthew 5:13-14 (NET):
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
John 17:3 (NET):
“Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”
2 Corinthians 5:17 (NET):
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
Philippians 2:12-13 (NET):
“Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose.”
John 14:26 (NET):
“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and will cause you to remember everything I said to you.”
DAY 5: LIVING HOPE
Matthew 6:33 (NET):
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
True hope is found in seeking God above all else. When we prioritize him, everything else falls into place—not always in the way we expect, but in the way he knows is best. Seeking God means trusting in his promises, even when the future seems uncertain. It’s holding onto the hope that he is faithful—yesterday, today, and forever.
Seeking First the Kingdom: What does it mean?
1. Aligning our desires with God’s will
Seeking God’s kingdom means choosing his ways over our own. It requires surrender—letting go of our own plans and trusting that his are better. When we prioritize righteousness (living according to his truth), we cultivate a life that reflects his love, justice, and faithfulness.
2. Living with eternal perspective
Instead of worrying about the temporary things of life—what we will eat, wear, or achieve—Jesus teaches us to focus on what truly lasts: our relationship with him and his kingdom. This doesn’t mean we neglect responsibilities, but rather that we trust God to provide and partner with us as we put him first. We always keep our primary focus on him.
3. Trusting in his promises even in uncertainty
Seeking God’s kingdom first is a declaration of faith. It’s saying, “Lord, I trust that if I follow you, you will take care of the rest.” This doesn’t always mean life will go the way we plan, but it does mean that everything will work out according to his perfect plan (Romans 8:28).
In the Old Testament, Abraham’s life was a picture of hope in what was yet to come. He left his home without knowing where God was leading him. He believed in God’s promise of a son, despite his old age. And he trusted that even if he had to sacrifice his son Isaac, God would still be faithful. His hope was not in his circumstances but in the one who holds the future.
Even in struggles and hardships, Abraham sought God first. The hope that Abraham carried wasn’t just for himself but for generations to come. The promise made to him was ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ—the true blessing to all nations (Galatians 3:29). Like Abraham, we are called to place our hope not in what we see at the moment, but in the One who holds the future.
How do we live this out?
- Prioritize God daily – Seek him first in decisions, relationships, and plans.
- Trust his timing – Even when things seem delayed, his promises never fail.
- Surrender control – Let go of worry and embrace faith, knowing he guides and provides.
- Live with hope – Just as Abraham believed in things unseen, we can walk forward with confidence, knowing God is faithful.
By seeking his kingdom first, we find true peace and provision—not always in the way we expect, but always in the way he knows is best.
- Yesterday: We remember how God has been faithful in the past. (See Psalm 36:9)
- Today: We find fullness of joy in his presence. (See Psalm 16:11)
- Tomorrow: Our faith and hope are in God, who never fails. (See 1 Peter 1:21)
Questions to reflect on:
What does seeking God first look like in your daily life?
How does Abraham’s story challenge you to trust God more?
Who in your life needs to experience the love, grace, and truth of Jesus this week? How can you intentionally be salt and light to them?
Prayer:
Father, I choose to seek you first in all things. Help me to trust your plans, even when I don’t see the full picture. Strengthen my faith like Abraham, so I can walk in obedience and hope. Remind me of your faithfulness in the past, and give me peace in the present as I trust You for the future. Amen.
Scripture:
Matthew 6:33 (NET):
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Romans 8:28 (NET):
“And we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.”
Galatians 3:29 (NET):
“And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to the promise.”
Psalm 36:9 (NET):
“For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light.”
Psalm 16:11 (NET):
“You lead me in the path of life; I experience absolute joy in your presence; you always give me sheer delight.”
1 Peter 1:21 (NET):
“Who through him you now trust in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.”
DAY 6: FREELY RECEIVED, FREELY GIVE
Matthew 10:8 (NET):
“Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. Freely you received, freely give.”
Jesus died for each and every one of us. And for those who choose to believe, He offers forgiveness of sins and eternal life. But the wonderful thing is that this transformation—this new life in Christ—is not meant to be kept a secret. It is a light that must shine for others to see because good news is meant to be shared.
Jesus has called all of us to take part in his mission. As he says in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), we are to “go and make disciples of all nations.” We are not just receivers of his grace; we are carriers of his message. We are called to “let your light shine before people, so that they can see your good deeds and give honor to your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16).
Our goal is not to save people—that is God’s work. Our role is to be great representatives of Jesus so that others see our lives and desire to experience the same transformation we’ve experienced. It’s not just about the life we live, but about the deep, personal relationship we have with Jesus. We are here to plant seeds—seeds of love, seeds of the gospel—and it is up to God to make them grow. As Paul says in 1 Corinthians 3:6, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.”
This is not just a command—it’s a co-mission with Jesus. We have partnered with him, not only to receive his salvation but also to share it. The freedom we now walk in, the forgiveness we have received, and the power to overcome sin—these are gifts that must be passed on.
As we prepare to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, let this truth sink in: Christ died, and there is a wonderful life in store for those who choose to follow him. But following him is not just about receiving the benefits of salvation—it is about stepping into the mission. It is about seeing sinners set free, lives transformed, and the kingdom of God grow.
As the great evangelist Reinhard Bonnke once said, “Plunder hell and populate heaven.” That is the call each one of us is meant to step into. Today, take a moment to reflect—who in your life needs to hear the good news? You have freely received. Now, go and freely give.
Questions to reflect on:
How does knowing that salvation is not just a past event but something we live out daily change the way you approach your everyday life, relationships, and choices?
What areas of your life feel the hardest to surrender to God? Where do you need the Holy Spirit’s help to live differently?
Who in your life needs to experience the love, grace, and truth of Jesus this week? How can you intentionally be salt and light to them?
Prayer:
Jesus, thank you for the gift of salvation. Help me to live in a way that reflects your love and truth. Give me the boldness to share the good news with those around me, not in my own strength, but through the power of your Spirit. Amen.
Scripture:
Matthew 10:8 (NET):
“Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. Freely you received, freely give.”
Matthew 28:19-20 (NET):
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Matthew 5:16 (NET):
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”
1 Corinthians 3:6 (NET):
“I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.”
Got Questions?
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