LEARNING DAILY

John 11:4, When Jesus heard that, He said, “This sickness in not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.”

Because of some of the writing contain in the blog lately, I believe today’s page of the blog might be an encouragement. My thoughts are taken from a writing by Charles Spurgeon; he used the verse above to explain why some of the trials/temptations we go through are for the purpose to strengthen the faith of those who follow Him. Not only that, but our situation and how we handle it might encourage others as they watch us.

Jesus has been told His friend Lazarus was sick; his sisters, Martha and Mary, wanted Jesus to come to Lazarus and heal him.   A trial, a test of faith over something that cannot be controlled is occurring. It deals with sickness and death; it is occurring within a family that Jesus cares a lot about. The next verse states that Jesus loved Martha, Mary and Lazarus. The Bible tells us that the Lord Jesus Christ loves you and me in the same way. That is an important part of this scenario!

This is about the Creator of all things, the Savior’s love and the faith He wants to build in those who follow Him, even in the face of death. It is about testing faith, “for faith that is not tested can still be faith, but it is sure to be little faith” (Spurgeon). I know people who have believed in Jesus, who have known He is able and can do anything. Yet when faced with a cancer or some other problem that could lead to death, faith becomes the issue. Is faith built up or just forgotten? Faith, when tested through an experience like this may make one’s walk with God become very real. Jesus’ disciples need to see that. You and I, as Believers need to see and understand that!

Spurgeon wrote, “Talk about Christianity that is not based on experience is mere talk.” I can write about forgiveness. It is only when I have experienced it that I can write from the point of view that is really meaningful. I can write about God’s grace, but without experiencing it, it is only theory. I might not fully understand the forgiveness and grace of God, but experience has shown me how much God loves me. If He doesn’t, I would have been in great trouble. You would too!

Spurgeon wrote, “Faith increases in strength, assurances, and intensity the more it is exercised. Trials drive faith to God.” The trials in the lives of Believers ought to drive you closer to God, knowing that He is always with them through those things they face. Jesus loved this family. He knew what they were facing. He knew Lazarus was sick and dying. He said it was for the glory of God and that He might be glorified through it. So, it is with Believers today. He strengthens our faith in our trials in order that He might be glorified. How is He glorified? When you know He is with you. When you place your situation in His hands, knowing he can heal you. You glorify Him when you know that He might heal you by taking you to His kingdom for eternity and you trust Him. You glorify Him by your actions, letting all who see you be amazed at how you are dealing with your situation. You are able to do this because “your faith is driven to God”.

I have watched my family and my friends over the years as they faced situations in their lives. Yes, they were difficult situations. I have seen the faith of some grow greatly. I have watched as God was glorified by the way the situation was handled. Each time, my faith increased! I wonder how often the trial, trouble, or sickness was allowed to make them and me come face to face with the reality and importance of one’s faith in the Father above and His great love for each of us!