A Turning Point Devotional Guide
Day 1: The Limitation of “Too Late” – John 11:1-6
Limiting Belief: “You’re too late.”
Human Need: Control. Certainty.
Our fear of losing control creates a limiting belief that God is bound by time. Mary and Martha sent for Jesus, expecting immediate healing. When Jesus delayed, they likely felt abandoned. We often believe that if God doesn’t act on our schedule, the situation is hopeless. Identify one situation where you feel God is “too late.” Surrender the need to control the timeline in prayer.
Day 2: The Limitation of “If Only” – John 11:17-27, 32
Limiting Belief: “If only you’d come when we called you.”
Human Need: Uncertainty. Variety.
“If only” is a phrase of imprisonment, trapping us in past regrets rather than future possibilities. Jesus redirects Martha from her past pain to the present power: “I am the resurrection and the life” (v. 25). Jesus is not just a healer of the past; He is the source of life in the present. Stop saying “If only…” and replace it with, “Lord, you are here now. What can you do?”
Day 3: The Limitation of “I’m not ___” – John 11:38-39
Limiting Belief: “My situation is too messy/shameful/far gone to be redeemed.”
Human Need: Important. Appreciated. Significance.
Shame makes us think our situation is too far gone for God to fix. Jesus still asks for the stone to be removed. He isn’t afraid of the smell or mess. Our deep fear of being “exposed” can keep us from letting Jesus into our darkest, most desperate places. What “stench” (shame or hopeless situation) are you hiding from God? Ask Him to bring life to that specific area.
Day 4: The Limitation of “Death is Final” – John 11:40-44
Limiting Belief: “Death (or endings) is the final word.”
Human Need: Security and Stability
The biggest limitation is fearing that death is the end rather than a new beginning. Jesus demonstrates that our physical boundaries and the finality of death do not limit God’s power. The resurrection of Lazarus predicts Jesus’ victory over death. Find a “dead end” in your life—such as a relationship, a dream, or a career—and declare, “Jesus is the resurrection and the life” over it.
Day 5: The Limitation of People – John 11:43-45
Limiting Belief: “People are just spectators of God’s power, not a part of it.”
Human Need: Help and Serve. Love and Connection.
We are called to stop merely observing Jesus and start partnering with Him. Many Jews believed in Him, but some became active participants in the miracle. Jesus invites us to help “unbind” others—sharing hope, encouraging the discouraged, and trusting Him with the impossible. Who in your life is still “bound” by a limiting belief? Offer them encouragement or prayer today.