A Lazarus Experience

John 11:1-45

There are times in life when we have a Lazarus experience.Situations come into our lives that don't look like they're going to turn out okay.We run and tell Jesus,like we should,but instead of Him coming right away to take care of the problem,He waits until it seems like it is too late.God always handles our situations in the way that will bring Him glory and be best for all involved.
The disciples didn't understand this.They thought Jesus stayed away in order to protect Himself from the Jews.However,the Jews couldn't touch Jesus until it was His time and He let them.
Martha and Mary didn't understand this either.They felt like God had forsaken them by coming,after their brother was already dead.Indeed this looked like the end until the resurrection at the last day.However,they didn't really grasp who Jesus is,that He is the resurrection.
Many times we're like the disciples,Martha and Mary.We claim to be God's followers,but then when our circumstances seem to have died-beyond hope,at least in this life-,we feel like God has forsaken us and we don't see Him for who He is.Some people,sadly,have quit believing in God when this happens.They disbelieve right when they need to believe the most,and as a result,miss out on seeing the glory of God.Just think if Martha had gone on disbelieving,Lazarus might still be in the ground.But because she had the faith to let them roll the stone away,God was able to restore life to Lazarus.
So many times we bury and roll the stone over the grave of our Lazarus experiences,when we have lost all hope and esp.disbelieve.God doesn't want our Lazarus experiences to be buried.Instead He wants to bring life to them.However,we have to keep believing in God and holding on to the hope found in Him,even if our Lazarus is dead.God will restore life to every Lazarus in our life in His perfect timing and way.

"Be strong and of good courage,do not fear nor be afraid of them;for the LORD your God,He is the One who goes with you.He will not leave you nor forsake you."Deuteronomy 31:6
"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God,to those who are the called according to His purpose."Romans 8:28