What Jesus Did! 'Worship in the Shadows of Confusion and Grief' — John 11:31-32

Friday, August 7, 2026

When the people who were at the house consoling Mary saw her leave so hastily, they assumed she was going to Lazarus's grave to weep. So they followed her there. When Mary arrived and saw Jesus, she fell at his feet and said, "Lord, if only you had been here, my brother would not have died."
— John 11:31-32 NLT

Key Thought

"Where could I go but to the Lord?" These words to an old hymn speak the truth of Mary's heart. Through her confusion and loss, she comes and falls at the feet of Jesus. So often the evil one convinces us that our doubts, fears, confusion, and grief make us unacceptable to the Lord. But where else can we or should we go with these soul-wrenching concerns. If there is anything that the ministry of Jesus should teach us, it is this: We can always come honestly to Jesus for truth, mercy, grace, help, forgiveness, cleansing, power, and love. Even if you don't know the "What?" or the "Why?" about the things going on your life, please know there is one waiting for you to share the burden of your heart.

Today's Prayer

Dear heavenly Father, I have some folks who are truly on my heart and who need your presence and your blessing: (Mention them by name.) I'm not sure if they can hold on to their faith much longer. Please minister in clear ways to them. I will continue to encourage them to come to you, but please, dear Lord, they need your help today. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

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Illustration

Illustration of John 11:31-32 NLT — "Lord, if only you had been here, my brother would not have died."

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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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