We reflect on the life of Jacob DeShazer as a powerful testimony to Jesus’ command in Matthew 5:44, seeing how the gospel turned hatred into forgiveness and enemies into brothers. Captured, tortured, and imprisoned during WWII, DeShazer encountered Christ through Scripture, and the love of Jesus changed his heart from vengeance to compassion.
Are we willing to say yes to God even when we feel unqualified or afraid? We reflect on the life of Gladys Aylward as a living picture of Christ’s command in Matthew 5:38–42, showing sacrificial love beyond obligation.
How should we live now so that we will have no regrets later? Jonathan Edwards lived with integrity and eternity in view. Relying on Christ rather than self-effort, Edwards sought to be a man of his word, shaping his life, ministry, and perseverance through trial.
Do we live with integrity when no one is watching? Billy Graham, one of the most recognized evangelists in history, sought not only to preach Christ but to live in a way that honored Him. Through daily time in God’s Word, reliance on the Holy Spirit, and personal safeguards like the Modesto Manifesto, he guarded his heart and walk from moral failure.
Are we living Christ, not just preaching Him? Robert Chapman, called “the saintliest man” by Charles Spurgeon, lived a quiet yet powerful life marked by humility, love, and a deep commitment to live for Christ. He gave up personal rights, pursued unity without compromise, and served the poor and the lost with Christlike love.
How do we run our race with full surrender to Christ? Eric Liddell’s life answers this question and many more with quiet strength and unwavering faith. His last words, “It’s full surrender,” remind us that true greatness is found in yielding wholly to Jesus. Let us run our race likewise—looking unto Him (Hebrews 12:1–2).
Are we willing to let our light shine wherever God places us? In Amy Carmichael’s life, we see the radiant fulfillment of Christ’s command: “Let your light so shine before men…” (Matthew 5:16). From the streets of Belfast to the orphanages of India, she lived with an eternal focus, burning with a holy love that served, rescued, and sacrificed.
How can we rejoice when suffering for Christ? Richard Wurmbrand’s life answers that question with powerful clarity. Tortured and imprisoned for his faith under Communist rule, he chose to obey Christ’s command: “Rejoice and be exceedingly glad” (Matthew 5:12).