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Read: John 11:38-53
Listen: John 11

Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” John 11:40

 While preaching near the Jordan River, Jesus receives word that Lazarus is sick. Surprisingly, he waits two more days before going to Bethany. This isn’t because he doesn’t care. He tells his disciples that this illness will not end in death but will reveal his power and glory. By the time Jesus arrives in Bethany, Lazarus has been in the tomb four days. Jesus goes to the tomb and calls him out, and Lazarus walks out alive! Lazarus could never do this on his own. Jesus shows his power over death so people will believe in him, and many do. But not everyone responds with faith. Some religious leaders still refuse to believe and begin planning to kill Jesus. Even this is part of God’s bigger plan. By raising Lazarus, Jesus points to what is coming—his own death and resurrection. He will go to the cross and defeat death once and for all.

Just like Lazarus could not raise himself, we cannot save ourselves. We don’t have the power to fix our own sin or the brokenness in our world. But Jesus does. He is the only one who holds the power to save us from things like broken relationships, addictions, the weight of worry and weariness. Scripture teaches that while we were still powerless, Christ died for us (Romans 5:6). Through his death and resurrection, Jesus offers forgiveness, new life, and his power at work within us.

TODAY: Confess your powerlessness. Ask Jesus to step in with his power and help you trust that he is at work in your life. Learn more about how to walk in the power of Jesus by joining an Explore Group.