What Jesus Did! 'Service Is Rooted in Confidence' — John 13:3-5

Monday, September 7, 2026

Jesus knew that the Father had given him authority over everything and that he had come from God and would return to God. So he got up from the table [before the "Last Supper"], took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, and poured water into a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples' feet, drying them with the towel he had around him.
— John 13:3-5 NLT

Key Thought

Confidence in his walk with God enables Jesus to serve others and to submit his will to God sacrificially - Jesus demonstrates his confidence, submission, and commitment to service by washing his disciples' feet, the account of which begins in today's verses. From the beginning of his ministry, God had affirmed Jesus' identity and importance: "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased". [1] Knowing his identity, Jesus now serves his disciples by showing them that the power of authority is service to others, not service from them. Knowing we are children of God should motivate us to serve others as well!

[1] Mark 1:11 NIV.

Today's Prayer

Father, please give me the courage and confidence to serve others sacrificially. I know you have made me your child, so please use me as your child to be a blessing to others. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

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Illustration

Illustration of John 13:3-5 NLT — "Last Supper"

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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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