How does John 11:4 encourage trust in God's purpose during difficult times? Setting the Scene: A crisis in Bethany Lazarus is gravely ill. His sisters, Mary and Martha, send word to Jesus, confident He can heal. Yet before the miracle unfolds, Jesus speaks a sentence that frames the entire event. Verse Spotlight: John 11:4 “When Jesus heard this, He said, ‘This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.’ ” Key truths that build trust • God knows the outcome from the start. – “This sickness will not end in death.” Jesus states the finish line before anyone else can see it. • God assigns purpose to pain. – “It is for the glory of God.” Suffering is never random; it becomes a stage for divine glory. • God keeps the spotlight on His Son. – “So that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” Every situation is ultimately Christ-centered, assuring us that His character and power will shine. • God’s word is certain. – Jesus doesn’t offer a possibility; He declares a fact. His spoken promise is as dependable today as it was in Bethany. Practical takeaways for today’s struggles • Anchor your outlook to God’s promise, not the present pain. • Look for how God might display His glory rather than asking only for relief. • Remember that delays do not mean denial; Jesus deliberately waited (vv. 6-7) yet His timing proved perfect. • Speak Scripture over fear. Repeating John 11:4 fixes your gaze on God’s endgame. Supporting Scriptures to strengthen confidence • Romans 8:28 — “We know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him…” • 2 Corinthians 4:17 — “Our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison.” • Genesis 50:20 — “You planned evil against me, but God meant it for good…” • Psalm 46:1 — “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.” • Isaiah 55:9 — “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so My ways are higher than your ways…” Closing reflection John 11:4 invites every believer to trade panic for confidence. If Jesus could declare the finale of Lazarus’s sickness before it unfolded, He can certainly speak hope into today’s hardships. Trust His purpose, wait for His glory, and rest in the certainty that His word never fails. |
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