Toni Smothers
Scripture Reading: John 11:1-11
Scripture Quote: Then Jesus said to them clearly, “Lazarus is dead. And because of you I am glad I was not there, so that you may have faith; but let us go to him.” John 11:14-15 (BBE)
Jesus was summoned in plenty of time to get to Lazarus and heal him before he died - His sisters thought that Jesus was too late. It's just like us to think that if we don' t have an immediate response, or don't see the outcome we were anticipating, that God is not going to answer us. But when we pray expectantly, we can start to look for the person or situation that God will send to offer the exact help that we need. He often answers us with a long silence. He may very well be working on stretching our faith or trust in Him.
When we can accept silence from God, even as we are sure He is working in our behalf, we will have moved closer to the level of maturity He wants for His followers. Through patience, we can grow into the knowledge that once we have left a problem with God, He sets into motion a series of events that makes its way through to the solution or answer. Time doesn't mean the same thing to God as it does to us. We are always thinking that we need our solution or answer now, but our Father knows what will be the best time and the best help.
Today’s meditation: Trust that God's silences can be His best answers.
Memory Verse: The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)