How can we encourage others facing "large stones" in their faith journey? Setting the Scene “Looking up, they saw that the stone had been rolled away—although it was extremely large” (Mark 16:4). The women going to Jesus’ tomb arrived expecting an immovable obstacle. God had already handled it. Their experience speaks to every believer who feels blocked by “large stones” today. Recognizing the “Large Stones” in Our Lives • Illness that lingers • Financial shortfalls • Strained relationships • Spiritual doubts or dryness • Opposition for taking a biblical stand Naming the stone helps us meet it with Scripture’s promises. Truths to Share with Someone Struggling • God arrives before we do. He removed the tomb stone before the women even voiced their worry (Mark 16:3–4). • No obstacle intimidates the Lord who “spoke, and it came to be” (Psalm 33:9). • The resurrection turned the greatest barrier—death—into an open door. If He conquered that, lesser stones will not prevail (Romans 8:32). • What looks like a blockage often becomes a testimony platform (John 11:40). Practical Ways to Encourage • Speak the Word aloud together—faith comes by hearing (Romans 10:17). • Share past “stone-rolling” stories from your own walk; personal testimony fuels hope (Revelation 12:11). • Offer tangible help—meals, rides, childcare—to lighten their load and show Christ’s love in action (James 2:15-16). • Send brief, truth-packed messages: “He is able” (Ephesians 3:20) or “The battle is the Lord’s” (1 Samuel 17:47). • Worship alongside them. Praising God shifts focus from the stone to the Stone-Mover (Psalm 34:3). • Celebrate small breakthroughs; they signal that the large stone is already loosening (Philippians 1:6). Anchoring Their Hope in Christ • Fix eyes on the risen Lord, not on the blockage (Hebrews 12:2). • Remember His unchanging character: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). • Encourage continual prayer; even groans are heard (Romans 8:26-27). • Rest in His timing. The women arrived “very early” (Mark 16:2); the miracle was ready, yet discovered only when they showed up. Further Scriptures to Reinforce Courage and Faith • Isaiah 43:2 – He’s with us in the deep waters. • 2 Chronicles 20:12 – “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You.” • Philippians 4:6-7 – Anxiety replaced by peace that guards. • 1 Peter 5:7 – Cast every care on Him, for He cares for you. Takeaway to Carry Forward When a fellow believer faces a massive obstacle, we remind them that the stone is already subject to the risen Christ. We come alongside, speak Scripture, serve practically, and point unwaveringly to Jesus—the One who still rolls away very large stones. |
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