In John 11:1-44, we read about the story of Lazarus and his 2 sisters, Mary and Martha, friends of Jesus whom He dearly loved. They sent word to Jesus, that Lazarus was very sick. Upon receiving the information, “he stayed where he was two more days.” (John 11:6 NLT) Jesus deliberately waited, because he said, “Lazarus’s sickness will not end in death. No, it happened for the glory of God, so that the Son of God will receive glory from this….” But when it was time to go, He said, “…for your sakes, I’m glad I wasn’t there, for now you will really believe. Come, let’s go see him.” (John 11: 4, 15 NLT) The disciples also questioned Jesus because the Jews had previously attempted to stone Him in Judea (v. 8), and they wondered about the wisdom of going back through Judea. When He arrived in Bethany, Martha went to meet Him. “Lord…if you had been here, our brother would not have died.” (John 11:21 NLT)
How many times have we cried out to the Lord in our hearts (and voices), the anguished words “But, Lord…!?” or “Oh, God, why?!” Even though Jesus told His disciples that Lazarus’ illness/death would be for the glory of God, they questioned Him. How easy it is to also cry out to God, not understanding why He doesn’t answer as we would expect. Martha had faith Jesus could (and would) have healed her brother, “But even now, I know that God will give you whatever you ask.” (John 11:22 NLT) Jesus wanted His disciples to see this miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead, so they would “really believe” (NLT). Dr. Jim Logan writes of this in his monthly email devotional (http://mailchi.mp/a990eea7fbf5/a-word-from-the-word-jan-2018); having a “really believe” faith experience.
My husband and I have dear friends that are battling serious cancer. We have prayed and called out to the Lord; knowing that He is more than able to bring healing. How hard to “let go and let God”, to do what He knows is best, for His glory. Sometimes, our loved ones are delivered from their suffering miraculously, other times they are not. Ultimately, it is our faith and relationship in the One who holds life and death in His hands that is really the issue. How and what do you know and understand Him to be? Even His disciples struggled and questioned. Do we believe, really believe, that He is always good; and that He is in control, and knows what is best?
Dear Lord, Help us to “really believe” that you are always good, and in control. Help us to have spiritual “eyes” to see our life’s circumstances from Your perspective! In Jesus’ name and for His glory, Amen.