For the Glory of God

Scripture Focus: John 11:1–16

Life doesn't always go how we expect — not even for those Jesus loved. When Lazarus fell sick, Mary and Martha cried out for help. But Jesus delayed... and let it get worse. Why? Not out of neglect, but because He was preparing to reveal something greater — the glory of God.

💭 Reflection: Sickness with a Purpose

Like the blind man in John 9, Lazarus' condition wasn’t because of sin — it was so God’s glory could be seen. The delay wasn't a denial; it was a setup for a resurrection story. There are seasons in our lives that feel like silence from heaven — but God is aligning every moment to display His power through us.

🕯️ Walking in the Light: John 11:9–10 Reflection

When the disciples tried to stop Jesus from going back to Judea, He responded with a layered truth:

“Are there not twelve hours in the day? … If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light…”

Jesus was reminding them (and us): when you walk in the light of God’s will, you walk with certainty and protection.
But to walk outside His will — in fear, doubt, or self-reliance — is to stumble in the dark.

He says, Stay in step with Me. I am the Light. You won’t stumble if you walk with Me.

🧠 Thomas’ Statement: “Let us go, that we may die with Him.”

Thomas assumed danger was ahead and boldly — perhaps even grimly — declared his loyalty. Whether in sarcasm or sincere devotion, he was willing to follow Jesus into the unknown. And that’s what true discipleship looks like: not perfect understanding, but faithful obedience.

🪔 Devotion Takeaway:

God is not afraid of letting situations "go dark" if it brings about a greater light.

What others call dead, God can call back to life.
What feels like silence, He uses to position you for glory.
What seems late, may be perfectly timed for resurrection.

Your Lazarus situation — the thing you thought Jesus should’ve fixed by now — might just be waiting for resurrection power.

📖 Scripture for Meditation:

• John 11:4 – "This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God..."

• Romans 8:28 – "And we know that all things work together for good..."

• Isaiah 55:8–9 – "For My thoughts are not your thoughts..."

📓 Journal Prompts:

• Is there an area of my life where I feel God is delaying?

• Am I walking in the light of His guidance — or in the night of my own understanding?

• What does trusting Jesus even when I don’t understand look like?

• Do I believe He can still resurrect what feels lost?

🙏🏽 Prayer Prompt:

Lord, help me trust You in the waiting. When things look like they’re falling apart, remind me they may be falling into place for Your glory. Give me the courage to walk with You, even when it leads to the unknown, like Thomas, let my loyalty outweigh my fear. Thank You for being the Resurrection and the Life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.