Jesus’ Thanks For Answered Prayer

They rolled the stone aside. Then Jesus looked up to heaven and said, “Father, thank you for hearing me. You always hear me, but I said it out loud for the sake of all these people standing here, so that they will believe you sent me.”

John 11:41-42

The story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead gives us a unique glimpse into the prayer life of Jesus. He knew that his Father always heard his prayers, so as Lazarus’s tomb lay open, Jesus thanked God out loud to demonstrate to his followers that God had sent him. When he commanded Lazarus to come out, he wasn’t surprised that Lazarus stood up and walked toward him. But those who gathered at the tomb were astonished: How could this be? Jesus’ prayer answered their questions. God the Father had sent Jesus to them. Lazarus was physical proof of Jesus’ divine power.

Jesus’ prayer is for our benefit as well. In prayer today, reaffirm your belief in Jesus’ divine power over death. Praise and give him thanks for answering your prayers.

• Dear Jesus, I believe God sent you to this earth. Thank you for hearing me . . .