John 11:41b-42 (NASB)
41b Then Jesus raised His eyes, and said, “Father, I thank You that You have heard Me.
42 I knew that You always hear Me; but because of the people standing around I said it, so that they may believe that You sent Me.”

As I read the story of Lazarus, it occurred to me that when we pray, we can take comfort in the words of Jesus. God always hears His children. He may not respond in the way we want, but He is always there for us, giving us absolutely what we need. We should never hesitate to call upon Him.

The story of Lazarus is also a perfect picture of the Gospel.

Like Lazarus, I have always been a friend of Jesus (vs. 11), even before I recognized Him as Lord and Savior.

Like Lazarus, I was dead in my sins and unable to call on the name of Jesus.

Like Lazarus, Jesus called me. Jesus initiated my redemption.

Like Lazarus, I responded when the Holy Spirit entered my heart and I was revived from death.

Like Lazarus, the bindings of death have been removed. Even though my sin nature still exists, faith has been bestowed.

Heavenly Father, thank You for always hearing me. Help me to tune my thoughts to Your will. Forgive me when I hesitate to ask. Thank You for letting me see the Gospel in the story of Lazarus. I pray that the words of the Bible will sanctify me more and more each day. I am so thankful that Jesus has always been my friend. I give You all the glory. In His name I pray. Amen.