GPS-Tears & Fears

MAR 10  / Sunday – Read John 11:17-44 / John 14:1-7 and 15-19

Overview: When you really love, you feel others’ joys and pain…just like Jesus did.

11 / Mon – Delays  |  Read John 11:1-16

Lazarus, Martha, and Mary were very dear friends but when Jesus got their message, he stayed where he was for two more days. Why would Jesus delay? See his reasons in v 4, 14-15. Have you experienced a serious time-sensitive need and it seemed God failed to show up in time? Looking back, sometimes you can see why. But if you never understand the reason, will you trust God’s character and the love He has for you enough to find peace in the outcome? You can read the end of Lazarus’ story. Do you trust God has a better answer for you as well?

12 / Tue – A question to answer  |  Read John 11:17-27

In Jesus’ conversation with Martha, she had the opportunity to reaffirm she knew who he was. When everything is stripped away from you, what is left? No matter what lies ahead in your future, one thing remains. Jesus can be trusted because he is who he claimed to be. The words Jesus spoke to Martha in v25 have become the theme at every Christian funeral. Still, the question waits to be answered, do you believe this? Even in loss and grief, there is hope.

13 / Wed – He weeps with you  |  Read John 11:28-44

Mary echoed her sister’s statement. If only Jesus had come earlier, her brother would not have died. Have you felt that way in some situations? If only Jesus had shown up sooner, maybe things would be different. Was Jesus disappointed with her? No. He wept too. Even knowing Lazarus would be raised up, Jesus was present in the moment, sharing Mary’s grief. That’s what love does. Jesus fully understands your sorrow and wants to comfort you. Will you take your pain to him?

14 / Thu – A precious promise  |  Read John 14:1-7

One of the most precious promises Jesus made to his followers on the night before he was arrested is found in v 2-3. This promise is for you too. No one looks forward to the moment of their death but Jesus’ friends never die alone. And why does he come back for each one of us? Check out the reason in v 3b. The most wonderful Person you’ll ever meet wants you to be with him forever. Pause a moment to let that truth sink in. You are loved that much.

15 / Fri – Another promise  |  Read John 14:15-19  AMP (Amplified Bible)

Imagine the desolation when Jesus’ followers realized he was to be taken from them. When you love someone who leaves, it can feel like abandonment. Jesus understands our fears well. It was necessary for Jesus to go back to his Father but he promised the Holy Spirit would come to be with them and in them. As close as the breath in their lungs. This promise extends to all who follow Jesus. In v16, the Greek word paraclete translates as comforter, counselor, helper, intercessor, and advocate. Who do you need the Holy Spirit to be for you today?

16 / Sat – What next?  |  Read Romans 12:9-17  NLT (New Living Translation)

One of the ways you honor Jesus is to love others like he has loved you. In these verses, Paul gives the believers living in Rome – a decadent and ungodly culture – this list of practical ways to show Jesus’ love to others. Which ones resonate with you? In what areas are you doing well? What would you like to do better? Who are the people in your life who need Jesus’ love expressed in ways they understand? Start by praying for discernment. Then ask the Holy Spirit for opportunities to show His love to them and see what happens next.