JANUARY 8, 2014. LAZARUS

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 8

'...If you would believe you would see the glory of God.' John 11:40 NKJV

Lazarus

In the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, you'll notice three important principles: (1) Mary and Martha had a close relationship with Jesus before the crisis arose. When Jesus came to town, He stayed at their home and ate at their table. They were givers, not takers. You can't refuse to give God a minute of your time, an ounce of your energy or a cent of your money, then when trouble comes, say, 'Lord, why did You let this happen?' Jesus said, 'If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.' (John 15:7 NKJV) (2) Having a relationship with Jesus doesn't mean you won't have trouble But it does mean that you can go to Him with confidence in times of trouble. Yes, you must pay attention to your career and your family, but you must also pay attention to the most important relationship of all - the one you have with the Lord. '...If our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God and receive from Him anything we ask, because we obey His commands and do what pleases Him.' (1 John 3:2122 NIV) (3) When you bring Jesus into the situation, He will change it Lazarus was already dead and buried by the time Jesus got there. Humanly speaking, it was hopeless. But in moments like these God asks you, '...Is there anything too hard for Me?' (Jeremiah 32:27 NKJV) If your answer is 'No, Lord,' then your problem becomes an opportunity for Him to demonstrate His love and care for you.

Taken from The Word for You Today Devotional