HEAL - God's Heart for Healing in JohnSample

He’s Never Too Late

The three siblings: Lazarus, Mary, and Martha were all friends of Jesus prior to Lazarus’ fatal illness. In fact, Scripture tells us plainly that Jesus loved all three of them. However, notice that He didn’t prevent them from suffering. Undoubtedly, as Lazarus’ condition worsened, the more distraught the three became. The sisters desperately sent word for Jesus to come quickly. Notice Jesus’ reaction to the call to come. Jesus told the messenger that the sickness was for God’s glory. Jesus further explained to His disciples that Lazarus would die but that his death would benefit them because it would cause them to believe! Not only did Jesus not go to Lazarus, but He traveled toward Judea again, even though the religious leaders had threatened to kill Him if He came back there. Scripture tells us that God’s ways are often not like our ways. Many times we cannot possibly understand why things happen the way they do. But, at all times, we are told to trust Him and Him alone.

Jewish burials take place as quickly as possible after death, so Lazarus had been in the tomb for four days by the time Jesus finally arrived at his friends’ home. They went straight to the tomb, and despite Mary’s fear of the smell, Jesus commanded the tombstone be rolled away and Lazarus to come forth. That’s exactly what Lazarus did!

We are not always kept from pain, suffering, and heartache. In fact, Scriptures tell us that we will suffer. In this world, we will have troubles., but, He has overcome the world and ultimately, His children will come out of the tomb to live with Him forever.

QUESTIONS:

1. Do I doubt He loves me when I suffer? How does this account help my faith journey?
2. How might my suffering help someone else come to know Christ?
3. Am I willing to surrender to Him completely, including my physical health?