Daily Devo: Good Friday

Based on a sermon preached by Tim Bach, 3/29/26

Day 1
Opening prayer:
Lord Jesus, as we begin this devotional journey, open our hearts to see You clearly and to respond to Your invitation with humility and faith. Help us listen to Your voice and trust Your ways more than our own. Amen.

Scripture reading:
Matthew 21:1-11
Daily topic:
Jesus enters Jerusalem as King. The crowd welcomed Him with excitement, but many still expected a different kind of king. This passage reminds us that Jesus comes with authority, purpose, and peace, even when He does not match our expectations.

Life application:
Ask yourself where you may be expecting Jesus to fit your plans instead of surrendering to His. Write down one area of life where you need to welcome Him as King and pray over it today.

Closing prayer:
Jesus, You are worthy of honor and praise. Teach me to receive You as King, not only when life feels joyful, but also when Your path challenges my own. Amen.

Day 2
Opening prayer:
Father, thank You for revealing Your Son to us through Scripture. Give us fresh understanding as we reflect on the meaning of His journey to the cross. Amen.

Scripture reading:
John 19:19-20

Daily topic:
The inscription over Jesus on the cross was public, clear, and undeniable. Even in suffering, the truth of who He is was displayed for all to see. Jesus was not hidden, accidental, or powerless; He was identified as King.

Life application:
Consider how the cross reveals both suffering and glory. Journal one way the cross deepens your confidence that Jesus is in control, even when life feels confusing or painful.

Closing prayer:
Lord, help me not to overlook the power of the cross. Thank You that even in suffering, You revealed Your kingship and love. Amen.

Day 3
Opening prayer:
Holy Spirit, search my heart and show me where I resist surrender. Help me bring every hidden agenda before Jesus today. Amen.

Scripture reading:
John 19:21-22

Daily topic:
The religious leaders wanted the inscription changed, but Pilate refused. Their reaction reminds us how often people try to control the story. Good Friday invites us to release our own agendas and trust God’s greater purpose.

Life application:
Identify one situation where you have been trying to control the outcome. Pray through that situation and practice saying, “Lord, Your will, not mine.”

Closing prayer:
King Jesus, I confess that I often want things my way. Teach me to trust Your authority and rest in Your perfect plan. Amen.

Day 4
Opening prayer:
Jesus, thank You that You were not a victim or a pawn, but the willing Savior who gave Yourself for us. Help me remember the love behind the cross. Amen.

Scripture reading:
Matthew 21:4-5

Daily topic:
Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem fulfilled God’s plan, not human assumptions. The same is true at the cross. What looked like defeat was actually the unfolding of God’s salvation story.

Life application:
Reflect on one area of your life where God may be working in ways you do not yet understand. Write a prayer of trust that acknowledges His purpose beyond your perspective.

Closing prayer:
Father, thank You that Your plan is greater than mine. When I cannot see the full picture, help me trust that You are still working for good. Amen.

Day 5
Opening prayer:
Lord Jesus, as I finish this time of reflection, help me live with renewed awe at who You are and what You have done. Make my life a response to Your sacrifice and kingship. Amen.

Scripture reading:
John 19:19-22 and Matthew 21:11

Daily topic:
From the triumphal entry to the cross, Jesus remained King. The same crowd that celebrated Him could not fully understand Him, but His identity never changed. He is the King of Kings, worthy of our worship and our surrender.

Life application:
Choose one practical way to honor Jesus today through prayer, obedience, service, or generosity. Then share with someone what it means to you that Jesus is King.

Closing prayer:
King of Kings, I worship You for Your power, Your humility, and Your love. Help me follow You more faithfully and live each day under Your rule. Amen.