How does this verse encourage faith during personal trials and uncertainties? Setting the Verse in Context John 11:15: “and for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.” • Lazarus has died. • Jesus deliberately delayed coming, allowing the situation to reach what looked like an irreversible crisis. • The disciples—and Martha and Mary—are about to discover that what is impossible for man is a platform for God’s glory. The Heart Behind Jesus’ Words • “I am glad I was not there” sounds surprising, yet it reveals purposeful love: Jesus permits difficulty to cultivate deeper trust. • “So that you may believe” shows the end goal—stronger, more resilient faith grounded in firsthand experience of His power. • “Let us go to him” underscores Jesus’ active involvement; He never abandons His own in the hour of need. Lessons for Our Own Trials • Delays are not denials—God’s timing is meticulously intentional. • What appears hopeless to us is an invitation for Him to display resurrection power. • Faith often grows best in the soil of unanswered questions. Strength for Today • Jesus knows the full story while we only see a fragment; this perspective gives calm in confusion. • His gladness in allowing difficulty is not detached—He weeps with those who weep (John 11:35) while working a greater good. • Trusting His motives anchors the soul when circumstances feel contradictory. Companion Scriptures to Deepen Our Confidence • Romans 8:28—He weaves “all things” for good, including the painful pauses. • 2 Corinthians 1:9—“that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead.” • Psalm 27:13—“I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.” • James 1:2-4—Trials produce perseverance, leading to maturity and completeness. Practical Applications This Week • When a situation stalls, remind yourself aloud: “This delay has purpose—so that I may believe.” • List past moments when God turned apparent setbacks into testimonies; rehearse them daily. • Speak John 11:15 before stepping into unknowns, aligning expectations with His power. • Encourage another believer facing uncertainty by sharing how Jesus used your own “four-day-old” problems for His glory. |
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