Courage in the Ides of March

Daily Scripture Threshing for Saturdayp, March 15, 2025

Today's Text: Matthew 10:28-31

Key Verse: Matthew 10:28 (ESV): "And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell."

In ancient Rome, the Ides of March marked a turning point in history, as it was the day of Julius Caesar's assassination. Caesar, once a very powerful and feared leader, was brought down by the very people he trusted: a story thatml now serves as a cautionary lesson about the fleeting nature of earthly power and the dangers of complacency.

Today's Christians can learn from Caesar downfall. He focused on earthly power and prestige and suffered downfall on the ides of March. As today marks the historical ides or march, we are hereby reminded that we too can become distracted by the temptations and trappings of this world. However, Jesus reminds us that our true allegiance belongs to Him, and that we must not fear those who can harm our physical bodies, but rather fear God, who has the power to destroy both body and soul in hell.

In today's Matthew's text, Jesus teaches His disciples about courageous living in the face of persecution and danger when they fully and truly depends on His power. He reminds them that their heavenly Father cares for them and values their lives, even to the point of numbering the hairs on their heads. As His followers, we are called to live courageously, trusting in God's sovereignty and providence. We are not to fear the "Ides of March" moments in our lives; rather we are to face them head-on, knowing that our true strength and security come from God, not from our own strength.

Action Steps: Ask God to give you courage and boldness in the face of challenges and dangers. Reflect on the sovereignty and providence of God, trusting that He cares for you and values your life. Share the Gospel with others, even in the midst of persecution and danger. And, surround yourself with supportive fellow believers who can encourage and strengthen you.

Quote for the Day: "We are not drivem by cowardice and false sense of safety. Our reliance is upon the strength and power of the living Christ." (SimonOlatunji #quotablequote)

Let Us Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, I come before You today, asking for courage and boldness in the face of challenges and dangers. Help me to trust in Your sovereignty and providence, knowing that You care for me and value my life. Give me opportunities to share the Gospel with others, even in the midst of persecution and danger. Surround me with supportive fellow believers who can encourage and strengthen me — in Jesus' most glorious name. Amen.

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Thank you for being part of this journey. For additional reading on today's meditation, read: Psalm 23; Isaiah 41:10; and 1 Peter 3:14-17.

Read the Bible Through in One Year Plan: Numbers 1; Numbers 2; Numbers 3; and Numbers 4.

With all my love and prayers,

Rev Simon Wale Olatunji, Ph.D.

Your Darling Bishop (DaBishop)

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