Hosts Shelly and June Volk wrap up their extensive study on Psalm 22 by outlining core spiritual disciplines modeled through Messiah’s trial on the cross. Examining both Old and New Testament passages, the Volks emphasize how affliction acts as a refiner for spiritual growth, the critical necessity of fervent, ongoing prayer, and the call for believers to embrace endurance and take up their cross daily.

Key Takeaways:

• Purpose in Affliction: Affliction serves a divine purpose—testing faith, producing righteousness, and enabling believers to understand and hold fast to God's Word.

• Fervent, Energy-Driven Prayer: Rooted in James 5:16, effective prayer requires passion, persistence, and a daily lifestyle integrated with communion with God.

• Perseverance to Overcome: Messiah’s endurance on the cross grants believers the spiritual power to endure present-day trials and emerge victorious.

• Embracing the Cross: Following Messiah requires a willingness to yield self-will, embrace life's trials, and stand firm in faith despite world pressures.

• The Shema Declaration: The program concludes with the traditional declaration of the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4), standing in unity with Israel and pointing toward the ultimate return of the Messiah.

Scripture & Bible Passages Referenced:

• Psalm 22:1–31 – Prophetic psalm highlighting Messiah's suffering, persistence, answered prayers, and ultimate triumph.

• Luke 24:44 – Messiah's confirmation that all prophecies written in the Law, Prophets, and Psalms must be fulfilled.

• Ephesians 1:16–18 – Prayer for the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge (epignosis) of God.

• Psalm 119:50–75 – Declarations on how affliction revives the soul and deepens understanding of God's statutes.

• Hebrews 12:11 – Divine chastening and discipline yield the peaceful fruit of righteousness.

• James 5:16 – "The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much."

• Deuteronomy 6:4 – The Shema: "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one!"