For Our Good and His Glory
Submitted by Scott K. Miller, Associate Pastor
Victory Baptist Temple, Piedmont, MO
December 12, 2024
Joh 11:4-6 When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. 5 Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. 6 When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was.
Pain and difficulty, sickness and trials enter the home of folks every day unannounced. Yet, why must they afflict those who love the Lord? While the question is difficult to answer, from today’s verses we may somehow understand how God allows “bad things” as a platform from which He can build the faith of His children and glorify Himself when He brings relief.
The “therefore” in verse 6 is of special consideration. Our Lord lingered because He loved Mary and Martha. He allowed the sickness of their dear brother to grow from bad to worse—from sickness to death! He did so in order that those dear ladies and others could receive the testimony of His miraculous power.
He lingered, but at length He came. Even though He tarried, He knew and felt every sigh, grief, and tear that His friends endured. In the end, their sorrow was turned to gladness at the resurrection of their brother, and their faith was increased in Christ. In fact, not only was their faith increased, but others also believed on Jesus.
What trial or sickness in your life or the life of a loved one has you wondering where the Lord is? Are you fainting under the burden of despair waiting for an answer?
Allow this trial of yours cause you to praise the Lord, and say, “Lord, I trust You whatever the outcome of this trial because I know that Your ways are always best for me.”
Consider: The greater the problem the greater the power and glory of Christ can be seen.
