Are you disappointed? Has God not answered your prayer? Are you asking, “Why?” Here’s a thought from John 11. Though Jesus loved Lazarus (John 11:3, 5, 11), He intentionally waited, not intervening to heal him (John 11:6, 21), which resulted in Lazarus’ death (John 11:14, 32) and his sisters’ grief (John 11:19, 33). This inevitably provoked the age-old question: why would an all-powerful, loving God allow bad things to happen to good people? Specifically, why didn’t Jesus intervene and prevent this situation if He had the power to heal (John 11:37). Thankfully, God gave us the answer in the rest of the story: Jesus allowed Lazarus to die to orchestrate a far greater story than just a healing; it’s a story about a RESURRECTION that conquers death (John 11:23, 25, 44); it’s a story that brought many to believe in Christ (John 11:42, 45); it’s a story that brought tremendous glory to God (John 11:4, 40).
What disappointment are you facing? In what way has God refrained His almighty power from intervening? Possibly it’s about health, relationships, elections, or ministry. Take comfort:
- God is orchestrating a far greater story – ultimately leading to a resurrection that conquers death (1 Thessalonians 4; 1 Corinthians 15).
- He is working a greater work – that many would believe in Christ.
- He is fulfilling a greater purpose – to bring glory to Himself.
So dear Christian, walk by faith, believing that God works all things together for your good (Romans 8:28) and that He’s able to do exceeding abundantly above all that you ask or think (Ephesians 3:20-21). Take a few moments to ponder how that greater story may unfold.