How does John 11:40 encourage us to trust in God's promises today? Setting the Scene Lazarus has been four days in the tomb. Martha wrestles with grief and limited expectations, yet Jesus gently lifts her gaze beyond the grave. Key Verse “Jesus replied, ‘Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?’” (John 11:40) Why This Matters Today • The same Savior who spoke to Martha stands unchanging (Hebrews 13:8). • His words reveal the link between believing hearts and visible displays of divine glory. • Trusting God’s promises is therefore not wishful thinking but the God-ordained pathway to experiencing His power. What the Verse Teaches About Trust • Trust precedes sight: belief opens the eyes of faith before physical circumstances change. • God’s glory is the ultimate outcome: miracles, answers, and provisions serve the higher purpose of showcasing His majesty. • The promise is personal: “Did I not tell you” highlights the individual reliability of Jesus’ word. • Faith rests on His prior declaration: Martha’s confidence was to be anchored in what Jesus had already said, not in what she felt. Practical Ways to Trust God’s Promises 1. Anchor every hope to Scripture, not to shifting emotions. 2. Speak His promises aloud; let your ears remind your heart. 3. Obey the next clear step, even when the outcome remains unseen (cf. James 2:22). 4. Recall past faithfulness; yesterday’s glory fuels today’s trust (Psalm 77:11-12). 5. Refuse competing voices of doubt; stay tuned to Christ’s words like Martha at the tomb. Promises Worth Clinging To • Numbers 23:19 — “Does He promise and not fulfill?” • 2 Corinthians 1:20 — “All the promises of God are Yes in Christ.” • Hebrews 10:23 — “He who promised is faithful.” • Romans 8:28 — “God works all things together for the good of those who love Him.” • Isaiah 55:11 — “My word… will accomplish what I desire.” Takeaway John 11:40 calls believers to trust before they see, confident that the God who cannot lie will turn belief into breathtaking displays of His glory. |
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