John 12:20-36

Be Still: Lord, I surrender all distraction. Still my heart and mind so I can hear you speak. Remind me of the depth of your sacrificial love for me. Fill me with your presence in this moment. Amen.

 Read: John 12:20-36

Right now I am shaken. And what am I going to say? ‘Father, get me out of this’? No, this is why I came in the first place. I’ll say, ‘Father, put your glory on display.’ (v 27–28)

 Encounter: Public speaking, as I’m sure with most people, is never easy for me, and yet there are many areas of my life that require me to do it. When I’m really nervous, I plead with Jesus to make his Second Coming right before I have to speak!

 How do we find courage when we feel terrified by the weight of the things we are called to? In John 12:27, we read that Jesus knows that his death on the Cross is nearing. Jesus, fully God and fully human, acknowledges he is shaken. He does not hide the reality of the intensity of what is up ahead. He knows that the hour has come (v 23) and yet he demonstrates a courage rooted in the knowledge that God will be glorified through his obedience.

 In different seasons, we may be led to step out into the unknown, to take risks that feel scary: new careers, house moves, family expansion, friendship changes, to name a few. At times this seems daunting, and the road ahead may not be straightforward. However, this passage teaches us that clarity and hope can be found even when we're shaken by what’s ahead.

 When calling feels weighty, we can pray the same prayer Jesus prays – 'Father, put your glory on display’. And, as we do, he gives us the strength to walk through all he requires of us, and with it, the peace to know that, even in the midst of challenges, he will be glorified. 

Apply: Is there an area of your life, or situation you are currently facing where you need to be honest with the Lord about your fears? Is there a step of faith you think the Lord may be asking you to make? 

Devote: Lord, give me the faith to believe that you will be glorified even when obedience is costly, and the purposes you have for me feel bigger than I can handle. Help me to rest in the knowledge that you are with me every step.