VICTORY OVER DEATH
Then Jesus shouted, “Lazarus, come out!” And the dead man came out…
John 11:43-44a (NLT)
No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.
And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:37-39 (NLT)
Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead is an extraordinary display of Jesus’ authority over death. This miracle also points to the future miracle of Jesus’ resurrection. Jesus demonstrates that He even has victory over death itself.
Death is one of people’s greatest fears, and even though many face it with fear, Jesus is not overwhelmed by it. Jesus can take our greatest fears and turn them into opportunities for glory.
When we fear death or if fear in general grabs at our souls, remember that Jesus conquered it. The very same power that raised Lazarus and Jesus from the grave is the same power that’s available to us today. Christ’s victory confirms that we can boldly face anything life throws at us, knowing that Jesus has got this.
APPLICATION: Write down a fear or worry that feels burdensome to you. Surrender that to Jesus in prayer. Meditate over Romans 8:37-39 above and ask God to give you the courage to face life today with the boldness that comes from Christ.
PRAYER: Thank You, Jesus, for Your victory over death, fear and the grave. Help me to live with the boldness You offer. Help me to see that my future is secure because of You. When I feel overwhelmed today, please remind me of Your power and promises. Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?