The Cross as Our Centerpoint
Devotional
In a world intoxicated with anger, how do we live differently? The answer lies at the cross—the ultimate demonstration of how God responds to hostility and injustice. When Jesus hung on the cross, facing mockery, violence, and betrayal, He didn’t respond with retaliation but with forgiveness: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Even in His suffering, Jesus saw beyond the sin to the sacred worth of those who persecuted Him. He recognized God’s image in them. The cross must be the centerpoint of our lives—the lens through which we view every conflict, every insult, every injustice. When we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus’ example, we gain the perspective and power to respond differently than the world expects. This doesn’t mean we become doormats or ignore injustice. Rather, we approach conflict with the recognition that even those who wrong us bear God’s image and are worthy of dignity. We stand firm in truth while extending grace. Living cross-centered lives means choosing the harder path—returning blessing for insult, praying for those who mistreat us, and seeking reconciliation rather than revenge. It’s not the natural response, but it’s the supernatural one that reflects Christ to a watching world.
Bible Verse
“What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you?” – James 4:1
Reflection Question
In what current conflict or tension could you apply the cross-centered approach of seeing God’s image in the other person while still standing in truth?
Quote You gotta keep the cross as the center point of your life. You have to remember the cross where Jesus was beaten and spat upon and lied about and insulted.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your example on the cross. When I face mistreatment or conflict, help me keep the cross as my centerpoint. Give me Your eyes to see Your image in others, even those who oppose me. Empower me to respond with supernatural grace rather than natural retaliation. May my life reflect Your character in this angry world. Amen.