Greater Plans Then You Could Possibly Imagine

Greater Plans than You can Possibly Imagine

Often times I need to hear things more then once to really digest them and take them to heart.  Last Sunday’s sermon was from John 11:1-53 about how Lazarus was sick and died before his dear friend Jesus came to help him.  My devotion today happened to be from this same passage and again my heart was filled with hope as I began to understand more of Jesus’ character and plan for us that is expressed through this true story of real love. 

Lazarus and his two sisters Mary and Martha were Jesus true friends. He knew them personally and loved them dearly. “John 11:3, Lord the one you love is sick”

Yet, when he heard this news he did not come to his friend immediately to “save the day”.  In fact he had a much better plan.

 “John 11:5-6, Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. YET when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more days.” 

(In other words he did this intentionally)

This part of the story teaches us that God does not always answer his children’s prayers the way we want him to; not because he doesn’t love us, but because he loves us!

“John 11:14-15 Jesus told them plainly, “Lazarus is dead, and for your sake I am glad I was not there, SO that you may believe.”

God is much more interested in our spiritual growth and character than in our physical comfort. He allows things to happens so that we will seek him, find him and BELIEVE 

 Just like as a parent it would often be so much easier to always rescue our children when they are going through something difficult. We hate to see them struggle, or hurt. Yet, if we constantly save them from every trouble they would never become strong. They would never learn how to fight to persevere to grow and mature. Our intention of good would intern be the worst thing for them.

Yet, even though God knows that the harder route is often better for us and nothing is hidden from him so he knows the out come (that this is all temporary), he still hurts for us!

“John 11:33-35 When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. Where have you laid him? He asked.

36 “Come and see Lord,” they replied

35 Jesus Wept.

So we can be assured that God is for us. His plans are not just good, they are the best.  When we are struggling we can be sure he hurts with us.  But, most amazingly we are promised that if we continue to believe we will see the Glory of God! John 11:40

~Sandy