What Jesus Did! 'The Devil Has a Plan' — John 13:2

Sunday, September 6, 2026

It was time for supper, [the "Last Supper,"] and the devil had already prompted Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus.
— John 13:2 NLT

Key Thought

We must never forget that the events of the cross were part of the devil's evil plan. From Judas' plot to betray Jesus, to those who oppose and abuse him in his trials, to the crowds mocking him on the cross, to entering the room and filling Judas, the devil temporarily has his way. The evil one will not leave these events alone. He will orchestrate the hatred, jealousy, mockery, injustice, brutality, cruelty, betrayal, treachery, and death which follow. These things are also what he desires for all who seek God and goodness. Choosing Jesus is not only crucial; it is also a battle. Let's never forget that Jesus faced the devil to win the victory for us. The power of God took all the evil that Satan exerted in the Passion and transformed it into our salvation!

Today's Prayer

Lord God Almighty, my Abba Father, please give me the wisdom to see the crafty ways of the devil as he seeks to deceive me and to destroy my faith in you and my love for you. Strengthen me by your Spirit in my inner being so that I can be strong enough to face down my enemy when he attacks. Deliver me from the evil one and bring me into your glorious victory with great joy. In the name of Jesus, my conquering Savior, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

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Illustration

Illustration of John 13:2 NLT — It was time for supper, [the "Last Supper,"] and the devil had already prompted Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus.

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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