A Year in the Bible with Daily Grace: Season 4, Week 30 Day 5 Summary

Episode Title: Applying Psalm 22 & Matthew 27:45-50
Release Date: July 25, 2025
Host: Alexa and Katie from The Daily Grace Co.

Introduction

In the latest episode of A Year in the Bible with Daily Grace, hosts Alexa and Katie delve into the profound connections between the Old and New Testaments, specifically focusing on Psalm 22 and Matthew 27:45-50. This episode, part of Season 4's Christ in All of Scripture reading plan, aims to uncover how Jesus is intricately woven into every thread of the Biblical narrative.

Exploring the Scriptures

Psalm 22 is a poignant Old Testament passage that vividly portrays suffering and a deep sense of abandonment. In Matthew 27:45-50, we witness Jesus Himself experiencing these exact emotions on the cross. This parallel underscores the continuity of God's plan and the embodiment of prophecy in the person of Jesus.

Key Discussions and Insights

1. The Power of Honest Prayer

Katie opens the discussion by highlighting the intense moment when Jesus cries out to God on the cross:

"Jesus cried out to God in despair on the cross, which encourages us to cry out to God in our own pain."
— Katie [00:37]

This moment of raw vulnerability serves as a powerful example for believers, illustrating that it's acceptable to express genuine pain and despair to God.

2. Embracing Honesty in Our Relationship with God

Alexa builds on this by sharing a personal application of the week's passages:

"Psalm 22 shows us that we could be honest with God when he feels distant... why can't we?"
— Alexa [01:03]

She acknowledges the universal experience of feeling distant from God, whether due to life's struggles, lack of regular spiritual disciplines, or personal sin. Alexa emphasizes that both Psalm 22 and Jesus' cry on the cross demonstrate that deep suffering doesn't preclude a relationship with God. Instead, it invites a more honest and transparent dialogue.

Key Takeaway:

When experiencing feelings of abandonment or pain, believers are encouraged to approach God with honesty, trusting that He remains present despite appearances to the contrary.

3. The Assurance of God's Presence in Our Struggles

Katie adds a complementary perspective, focusing on the empathy and solidarity God offers through Jesus' suffering:

"Jesus' experience on the cross reminds us that our God is a sympathetic God. He is familiar with our pain because he experienced it."
— Katie [02:42]

She underscores that God's entry into human suffering through Jesus means that believers are never truly alone in their darkest moments. This assurance fosters a deeper trust and reliance on God's enduring presence and provision.

Key Takeaway:

God's intimate understanding of our pain through Jesus' experience provides comfort and assurance that He is always with us, even when circumstances make His presence seem distant.

Practical Applications

Applying these insights involves cultivating a relationship with God that embraces both honesty and hope. Alexa outlines practical steps inspired by this episode:

1. Thank Jesus for His Sacrifice:

   • "Thank Jesus for experiencing the punishment you deserve for your sin."
     — Alexa [03:40]

2. Praise for Intimacy with God:

   • "Praise Jesus for bringing you into an intimate relationship with God."

3. Share Your Struggles:

   • "Share with God any ways you are struggling right now and ask Him to help you."

4. Trust in God's Presence:

   • "Trust in His presence and provision."

These prompts encourage believers to engage deeply with God, bringing forth their genuine emotions while resting in the assurance of His unwavering presence.

Conclusion

Alexa and Katie wrap up the episode by inviting listeners to continue their journey through Scripture, ensuring they have access to additional resources and community support:

"Thanks so much for joining us this week... we hope that you join us next week as we learn more about seeing Christ in all of Scripture."
— Alexa [03:40]

Listeners are encouraged to explore study materials, journals, and other resources available at thedailygraceco.com, and to follow Daily Grace Podcast and @thedailygraceco on Instagram for ongoing encouragement and resources.

Final Thoughts

This episode of A Year in the Bible with Daily Grace offers a profound exploration of suffering, honesty, and the enduring presence of God through Jesus. By paralleling Psalm 22 with Jesus' crucifixion, Alexa and Katie provide deep theological insights coupled with practical applications, encouraging believers to maintain open hearts and unwavering trust in God's plan, even amidst pain and uncertainty.

Whether you're in the midst of personal struggles or seeking a deeper understanding of Scripture, this episode serves as a comforting reminder of God's intimate involvement in every aspect of our lives.