John chapter 11 verses 4-7 (NIV)
When he heard this, Jesus said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.” Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more days, and then he said to his disciples, “Let us go back to Judea.”
If we were writing the story of Lazarus as a work of fiction, instead of the factual account that we read in the bible, I think it would read something like, “Jesus loved Martha, Mary and Lazarus so when He heard Lazarus was sick, He rushed back to Bethany to heal him.” Instead, what we read of the true story appears to be a bit of a contradiction in terms. We read that although Jesus loved Martha, Mary and Lazarus, He stayed where He was for two more days. He didn’t do what we might have expected. Did that mean He didn’t really love Lazarus? Of course not! He knew the bigger picture and even explained why to the disciples. This would prove who He was and He would be glorified.
That got me thinking about all the times in our own lives that things don’t work out the way we hoped they would. Does that mean God doesn’t love us? Of course not! God is still in control and knows exactly what He’s doing and things will be done for His glory. How often in my life have I looked back at what has passed and been glad that things haven’t worked out the way I hoped. God has had something better in mind, and I can give Him praise and glory for that.
Dear Lord,
Thank You that You know the plans You have for me, and they are always better than my plans. Help me to trust that You know what You’re doing, even if I don’t understand why things are going as they are. I know that all things work together for good for those who love You, Lord. Thank You. Amen.