How can we apply the lesson of trust from John 11:39 in our lives? Setting the Scene John 11:39: “ ‘Take away the stone,’ Jesus said. ‘Lord, by now he stinks,’ said Martha, the sister of the dead man. ‘It has already been four days.’ ” The Heart of the Command • Jesus gives a clear, practical order before He reveals His miraculous plan. • Martha’s objection is logical—decay is real after four days—yet Jesus presses for obedience first, understanding later. • Trust, therefore, is demonstrated in action, not merely sentiment. Key Observations • Trust demands movement: the stone has to be rolled back before life can come forth. • Obedience precedes sight: verse 40 follows with “Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?” • Human limitation meets divine power at the point of obedient response. Practical Ways to “Take Away the Stone” Today • Act on God’s Word even when circumstances seem irreversible—share the gospel, forgive, give sacrificially. • Release “protective” barriers—habits, relationships, schedules—that keep Him from working deeply. • Submit intellect and emotion to Scripture; don’t wait until everything makes sense. • Speak faith aloud: replace “But, Lord…” with “Yes, Lord.” • Expect resurrection power in dead areas—marriages, ministries, health, hopes—while refusing resignation. Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding…” • Psalm 37:5: “Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it.” • Hebrews 11:6: “Without faith it is impossible to please God…” • James 2:22: faith is perfected by works—rolling the stone is that work. Daily Trust-Building Habits 1. Start the day in the Word before voices of doubt arise. 2. Record past “stones” He has already moved; review them often. 3. Choose one concrete act of obedience each day that stretches comfort. 4. Surround yourself with believers who remind you of God’s faithfulness. 5. End the day thanking Him for unseen progress, echoing 2 Corinthians 5:7—“for we walk by faith, not by sight.” Final Encouragement Every stone we roll away in obedient trust becomes another platform for Christ to display His glory. |
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