In his sermon, Pastor Jerry explores how Jesus transforms individuals from victims of pain and hopelessness to victorious people through faith. He emphasizes that, despite the inevitable presence of death in our lives, Jesus demonstrates His power to conquer death, as seen in the story of Lazarus. By raising Lazarus after four days, Jesus not only affirms His role as the resurrection and the life but also offers hope and assurance of eternal life to all believers. Pastor Jerry urges listeners to embrace this hope, share it with others, and recognize the opportunity for personal transformation through faith in Christ.

5 Day Devotional

This five day devotional will be taking a deeper dive into the sermon from this weekend. We will explore the themes of hope, faith, and victory over death, as demonstrated through the powerful story of Lazarus in John chapter 11.

Day 1
Scripture: John 11:25-26

Today, we reflect on Jesus’ powerful declaration, “I am the resurrection and the life.” This profound statement calls us to consider our own beliefs about death and resurrection. Through His words, Jesus offers us hope, affirming that even in the face of death, there is life. He reveals the intimacy of His relationship with believers, assuring us that those who trust in Him will never truly die.

As we meditate on these verses, let us remember that the promise of resurrection is not just for the future, but is a present reality that brings peace and assurance to our lives today. Jesus invites us into a relationship where we can experience God’s glory even amidst our struggles. Let this truth encourage and inspire us to live in the light of His resurrection power.

• What does it mean for you personally that Jesus is the resurrection and the life?
• How does understanding Jesus’ victory over death change your perspective on life’s challenges?
• In what areas of your life do you need to experience the hope of resurrection?
• Pray for a deeper understanding of the resurrection in your life.
• Ask God to reveal areas where you need His resurrecting power.

Day 2
Scripture: John 11:33-35

In today’s passage, we observe Jesus’ deep compassion as He weeps for Lazarus and those mourning. This emotional response illustrates that even the Son of God feels our pain and suffering. Jesus does not remain distant from our heartbreak; instead, He enters into it with us. His tears are a testament to His empathy and love, reminding us that it is okay to grieve and express our emotions.

As we reflect on this moment, consider how Jesus relates to our struggles. He invites us to share our sorrows with Him. In our lowest points, we can find comfort in knowing that He is not indifferent to our pain but walks alongside us, offering solace and hope. His presence transforms our mourning into an opportunity for deeper faith.

• How do you process your feelings of grief or loss?
• In what ways have you experienced Jesus’ compassion in your life?
• How can you extend empathy to others who are suffering?
• Ask God to help you surrender your pain to Him.
• Pray for comfort and healing for those who are grieving around you.

Day 3
Scripture: John 11:39-40

Today, we examine Martha’s initial hesitation when Jesus commands that the stone be moved from Lazarus’ tomb. Her reaction highlights our human tendency to doubt God’s power in seemingly hopeless situations. Yet, Jesus reassures her that if she believes, she will witness the glory of God. This call to faith encourages us to trust God even when circumstances appear bleak.

Martha’s story teaches us the importance of obedience to God’s commands, even when they challenge our understanding or provoke fear. Moving the stone signifies an act of faith, paving the way for a miracle. In our own lives, we must also remove the stones that hinder our faith and trust in God’s promises, opening ourselves up to the miraculous possibilities God has in store.

• What “stones” in your life prevent you from fully trusting God?
• How can you cultivate a belief in God’s power to transform your circumstances?
• What steps can you take to demonstrate faith in your daily life?
• Pray for courage to act in faith despite doubt.
• Ask God to help you recognize and remove barriers to your faith.

Day 4
Scripture: John 11:43-44

As Jesus calls Lazarus from the grave, we witness the miraculous power of God prevailing over death. This moment is not just about bringing a dead man back to life, but it signifies Jesus’ ultimate authority over sin and death, revealing His identity as the Son of God. It invites us to recognize that the same power that raised Lazarus is at work in our lives today.

This powerful act reminds us that Jesus desires to unbind us from the things that hold us captive—our fears, doubts, and sins. As Lazarus emerges from the tomb, we are called to reflect on how God has freed us from spiritual bondage. Like the grave clothes that bound Lazarus, we are encouraged to shed any remnants of old ways as we embrace the new life given to us through Christ.

• What aspects of your life do you need to surrender to Jesus for healing?
• How have you experienced God’s freeing power in your own life?
• In what ways can you support others in finding freedom through Christ?
• Pray for the strength to let go of what hinders your walk with God.
• Ask God to bring to your mind those who need to experience His freeing power.

Day 5
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:54-57

As we conclude our devotional series, we reflect on the ultimate victory Christ has secured over death. The resurrection of Jesus not only provides hope but also assures us that death is not the end. The Apostle Paul emphasizes that death has been swallowed up in victory, which is a profound declaration of faith for every believer. Through Christ, we are reminded that our future is filled with hope.

This victory encourages us to live boldly for Christ, knowing that our lives hold eternal significance. The transformation of our perspective on death allows us to approach life with renewed purpose. As we grasp the implications of the resurrection, may we share this transformative news with others, inviting them to find hope in Christ’s victory as well.

• How does the promise of eternal life inspire you in your daily living?
• What steps can you take to share the hope of the resurrection with others?
• In what ways can you deepen your understanding of Christ’s victory over death?
• Pray for opportunities to share the Gospel with those around you.
• Thank God for the victory over sin and death that is yours in Christ.