Albert Barnes Commentary John 11:42

"And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the multitude that standeth around I said it, that they may believe that thou didst send me." — John 11:42 (ASV)

And I knew. "As for me. So far as I am concerned. I had no anxiety, no doubt as to myself, that I should always be heard; but the particular ground of gratitude is the benefit that will result to those who are witnesses." Jesus never prayed in vain. He never attempted to work a miracle in vain; and in all his miracles the ground of his joy was, not that he was to be praised or honoured, but that others were to be benefited and God glorified.