How can believers trust God's timing in difficult situations, like in John 11:6? Setting the Scene John 11 opens with an urgent plea: Lazarus, the dear friend of Jesus, is gravely ill. Yet Scripture says, “So on hearing that Lazarus was sick, He remained in the place where He was for two more days.” (John 11:6). The Savior stays put. What feels like delay is actually divine design. Why Jesus Waited • Glory first: “This sickness will not end in death… it is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” (John 11:4) • Faith formation: “For your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe.” (John 11:14-15) • Love, not neglect: verse 5 reminds us He deeply loved the family; delay and love are not opposites. • Perfect knowledge: Jesus saw the outcome from the start—resurrection, not ruin. Lessons From the Delay • God’s pace is purposeful, never haphazard (Habakkuk 2:3; 2 Peter 3:9). • Waiting often sets the stage for a greater miracle. • Delays stretch spiritual muscles—trust, patience, surrender (Psalm 27:14). • The answer often exceeds the request: Martha asked for healing; Jesus brought resurrection. • God remains sovereign over every tick of the clock (Revelation 1:18). Trust Anchors for Today • His character is good and unchanging (Lamentations 3:21-23). • His wisdom outranks ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). • His purpose is redemptive: “God works all things together for the good of those who love Him.” (Romans 8:28) • His timing is exact—seen in Joseph’s rise (Genesis 50:20) and David’s wait (Psalm 37:7). • His presence steadies anxious hearts (Philippians 4:6-7). Living It Out • Rehearse past deliverances; keep a record of answered prayers. • Meditate on waiting passages (Psalm 40; James 5:7-8). • Worship while you wait; praise shifts focus from the clock to the King. • Keep serving and obeying—don’t put life on hold (Galatians 6:9). • Speak truth aloud when doubts creep in: John 11:6, Romans 8:28, Psalm 27:14. |
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