📖 John 11:1–16 (ESV)
📜 Scripture
“But when Jesus heard it he said, ‘This illness does not lead to death. It is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.’”
— John 11:4 (ESV)
🕰️ Background
In the days leading up to His own crucifixion, Jesus received word that His beloved friend Lazarus was ill. But instead of rushing to Bethany, Jesus waited. His delay would set the stage for one of His most powerful miracles—and a deeper revelation of who He is. This passage invites us to wrestle with the mystery of divine timing and to place our trust not just in what Jesus does, but in when He chooses to do it.
💡 Devotional
Jesus loved Lazarus, Mary, and Martha—but love didn’t look like immediate action. It looked like waiting. His delay wasn’t indifference; it was intentional. How often do we mistake divine delay for divine denial? In seasons of unanswered prayers or painful waiting, we’re tempted to question God’s love or His presence. But this passage reminds us: God’s timing is perfect, and His delays are often the backdrop for His greatest displays of glory.
Even after the resurrection, we may still face moments of waiting. Easter reminds us that the grave doesn’t win—but our walk of faith will still require patience, trust, and obedience when God seems silent. When we wait with hope, we are walking in resurrection faith.
🔎 Reflection
- When have you felt like God was “too late” in your life?
- How does the resurrection of Jesus shape how you wait in hard seasons?
- What does it mean to trust God’s timing and not just His power?
🙏 Prayer
Jesus, thank You for being a God who sees beyond the moment. Help me to trust You in the waiting, to believe that You are working even when I can’t see it. Remind me that Your delays are filled with love and purpose. Strengthen my heart with resurrection hope as I wait on You. Amen.
🛠️ Application
This week, reflect on a situation in your life where you feel like you’re in a season of delay. Write down a short prayer or declaration of trust and place it where you’ll see it daily. Let it be a reminder that even in the waiting, God is preparing something greater.
📌 Takeaway
Jesus doesn’t just show up when it’s convenient—He arrives on time for His purpose and your good. Resurrection hope teaches us to trust, even in the silence.
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