How can we trust God when facing potential danger for our faith today? Setting the Scene: The Disciples’ Concern John 11:8 — “Rabbi,” the disciples replied, “the Jews just tried to stone You, and You are going back there?” • The threat was fresh and concrete; stones had already been raised against Jesus. • The disciples loved Him, feared for Him, and—by extension—feared for themselves. • Their instinctive response mirrors ours when faith invites risk: “Lord, is it worth it?” Jesus’ Example: Courageous Obedience in the Face of Danger • Jesus chose to return to Judea because the Father’s timing and purpose were clear (John 11:9-10). • His focus wasn’t self-preservation but fulfilling God’s will—including raising Lazarus and revealing His glory. • Trust begins with remembering that Christ walked the path of danger first; He understands. Why Trust Is Reasonable, Not Reckless 1. God’s sovereignty sets boundaries on danger. – Psalm 31:15 “My times are in Your hands…” 2. God’s love is proven, not hypothetical. – Romans 8:32 “He who did not spare His own Son… how will He not also… graciously give us all things?” 3. God’s mission is larger than the moment. – Acts 5:29 “We must obey God rather than men.” 4. God’s presence outweighs threats. – Hebrews 13:6 “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.” Practical Ways to Trust God When Faith Is Risky • Remember His past faithfulness. Keep a written record of answered prayers and providences. • Feed on Scripture daily; it renews courage (Joshua 1:9). • Pray specifically for boldness, not mere safety (Acts 4:29-31). • Stay close to other believers; shared courage multiplies (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Keep eternity in view: “To live is Christ and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21). • Obey promptly; delayed obedience breeds fear. Assurances for Today’s Believer • Danger cannot sever us from Christ’s love (Romans 8:38-39). • The Holy Spirit equips us: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7). • Victory is promised: “In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Living It Out: Faith That Moves Toward, Not Away • Like Jesus going back to Judea, we move toward God’s assignments—even when stones may fly. • Real trust is not reckless daring but settled confidence in the One who commands the storm and numbers every hair on our heads (Matthew 10:29-31). • When we step forward, God writes new testimonies that strengthen the entire body of Christ. Conclusion: Steady Hearts in Unsteady Times The disciples’ alarm in John 11:8 reminds us that danger for our faith is nothing new. Yet Jesus’ calm advance toward Judea shows us how to trust: focus on the Father’s purpose, rely on His power, and walk in His presence. As we do, our fears shrink, our witness brightens, and our lives proclaim that God is worthy of unwavering trust—no matter the cost. |
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