His Cross Had No Cushions

What did the Cross of Christ feel like?

The Bible simply says, “He bore our sins in His own body on the tree.” (2 Peter 2:24)

Has anyone adequately described the agony that meant?

Amy Carmichael attempted and said simply, “There were no cushions.”

What does our “cross” feel like?

We talk about “taking it up.” But, in reality, we would rather lay it down.

Either that, or we ask for a cushion.

                Christ bore the greatest agony for you and for me on the Cross.

                And we ask for a cushion.

What if our prayers were that of Nehemiah’s?

Faced with the task of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, Nehemiah’s “cross” was far from comfortable. He was falsely accused, constantly opposed, tempted to fear, and even to flee.

But Nehemiah never asked for a cushion.

Not once did he ask for a way out, a change in his circumstances, or relief from the trial.

Instead, he prayed, “O God, strengthen my hands.” (Nehemiah 6:9)

                He never asked for comfort.

               

    He asked for strength.

Christ bore the agony of His cross, and sins were atoned.

Nehemiah asked for strength, and the walls were finished.

What if we asked for strength?

               

                And left the cushion up to Him.