In Totality with Megan Ashley: EP 66 – "This Walk Will Cost You Something"

Release Date: April 15, 2025

Overview

In Episode 66 of "In Totality with Megan Ashley," titled "This Walk Will Cost You Something," host Megan Ashley delves deep into the profound concept of living a life wholly devoted to God. Through biblical exploration, personal reflections, and practical applications, Megan challenges listeners to examine their commitment to faith and the sacrifices it entails. This episode navigates themes of sacrifice, endurance, obedience, and the true essence of following Christ.

1. Understanding the Living Sacrifice

Megan opens the discussion by addressing the foundational Christian principle of being a living sacrifice, as outlined in Romans 12. She poses critical questions about what it genuinely means to surrender one's life to God's will and the daily commitment required to embody this sacrifice.

"What does it take to have the endurance, the courage, and the power to pick up our cross? What does that look like?" [01:15]

2. Jesus in the Garden: A Model of Total Surrender

Drawing inspiration from Paul Washer's teachings, Megan reflects on Jesus's agony in the Garden of Gethsemane. She emphasizes that Jesus's intense prayer—where He sweated drops of blood—was not merely about avoiding physical suffering but about the profound separation from the Father He was about to endure.

"He was going to be in that moment, separated from his Father for the first time... 'Not my will, but Your will.'" [03:30]

This reflection sets the stage for understanding the depth of sacrifice required to follow Christ faithfully.

3. Early Church Persecution: Exemplars of Faith

Megan transitions to examining the early church's remarkable resilience in the face of persecution. Referencing Acts 5, she highlights how apostles like Peter and John rejoiced even after being flogged, recognizing their suffering as an honor for the sake of Christ.

"They went out rejoicing, counted themselves worthy to be treated shamefully on behalf of the name." [05:45]

She draws parallels between the apostles' unwavering faith and the calling for modern believers to exhibit similar courage and dedication.

4. The Parable of the Rich Young Ruler: A Lesson in Priorities

A significant portion of the episode is devoted to the parable of the Rich Young Ruler, found in Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Megan analyzes the man's initial compliance with the commandments but ultimately his inability to part with his possessions when asked to follow Jesus fully.

"He had met all the commands... Yet walked away grieving because he did not want to give away the very thing that God was asking for." [07:20]

Megan uses this narrative to illustrate the difference between outward religiosity and genuine heart transformation, urging listeners to prioritize their relationship with God over material attachments.

5. Committing to the Altar: Living as a True Sacrifice

Central to Megan's message is the metaphor of laying one's life down on the altar—a symbol of complete surrender and devotion. She emphasizes that true endurance in the Christian walk stems from this daily commitment to forsake personal desires in favor of God's will.

"You have to be willing to lay your life down... You gotta be committed to this altar to have the endurance for the cross." [10:10]

This section underscores the necessity of daily spiritual disciplines and the intentional surrender of personal comforts to cultivate a resilient faith.

6. Practical Sacrifices in Modern Life

Megan transitions to practical applications, encouraging listeners to identify and surrender modern-day distractions and temptations that hinder their spiritual growth. She challenges believers to make sacrifices—whether it's limiting time on social media, giving up certain entertainment, or prioritizing prayer and devotion over leisure activities.

"Maybe it's getting off social media... Whatever it is that he is pulling you to do, just do it." [16:00]

By addressing these everyday challenges, Megan provides actionable steps for listeners to align their lifestyles with their spiritual commitments.

7. Embracing Obedience and Personal Growth

In her concluding remarks, Megan reinforces the importance of obedience and personal accountability in the Christian journey. She urges listeners to assess their lives critically, ensuring that their actions reflect a heart truly devoted to God.

"I want a heart that has Your desires. I want a heart that is committed to Your will, Your way." [25:30]

Megan's heartfelt encouragement serves as a call to deeper introspection and a reaffirmation of one's dedication to living wholly for God.

Key Takeaways

• Total Surrender: Embracing the concept of living as a sacrifice requires daily commitment to forsake personal desires for God's will.

• Endurance Through Commitment: True endurance in the Christian walk is rooted in a consistent dedication to spiritual disciplines and surrender.

• Practical Sacrifices: Identifying and relinquishing modern-day distractions are essential steps toward spiritual growth and resilience.

• Heart Transformation: Genuine faith transcends outward religiosity, necessitating a heart aligned with God's desires and purposes.

Notable Quotes

• "Not my will, but Your will." – Reflecting Jesus's prayer in Gethsemane. [03:30]

• "They went out rejoicing, counted themselves worthy to be treated shamefully on behalf of the name." – Acts 5 narrative. [05:45]

• "You have to be willing to lay your life down... You gotta be committed to this altar to have the endurance for the cross." [10:10]

• "Maybe it's getting off social media... Whatever it is that he is pulling you to do, just do it." [16:00]

• "I want a heart that has Your desires. I want a heart that is committed to Your will, Your way." [25:30]

Conclusion

Episode 66 of "In Totality with Megan Ashley" serves as a profound exploration of what it truly means to live a life wholly devoted to God. Through biblical insights, historical examples, and practical advice, Megan challenges believers to examine their commitments and embrace the sacrifices necessary for genuine spiritual growth. For anyone seeking to deepen their faith and align their life more closely with God's will, this episode offers both inspiration and actionable guidance.

For more insights and discussions on living a life fully devoted to God, tune in to "In Totality with Megan Ashley" on your preferred podcast platform.