Purpose Even in the Middle of a Trial

Tuesday, April 28th, 2026

4:54 am

Good morning! Today I am in John 11:1-16. One day, one of Jesus' friends, Lazarus, was sick. His sisters, Mary and Martha, sent a message to Jesus to let Him know. When Jesus heard about Lazarus being sick, He told His disciples that Lazarus's sickness would not end in death, but it happened for the glory of God, so the Son of God would get glory from it. Even though Jesus loved them, He stayed where He was for 2 days. Then He told His disciples it was time to go to Judea. But the disciples asked Him why He would go back there when they were just trying to kill Him. Jesus told them that there were 12 hours of daylight everyday. And during that time people can walk safely because they have the light of this world. But at night they are in danger of stumbling because they have no light. He tells them that their friend Lazarus had fallen asleep, and He was going to go wake Him up. They said that if he was asleep, that means he would get well. Jesus told them that Lazarus was dead, and that for their sake He was glad He wasn't there, so that now they would really believe. Thomas told the other disciples, "Let's go too - and die with Jesus!"

Jesus did not go right away to help His friends, even though He loved them dearly. He stayed behind so that everyone would see the power of God that He had. When we are struggling with whatever our trial may be, we can turn to God. Just like Mary and Martha knew they could turn to Jesus for help because they saw the miracles He had done, we too can turn to Jesus. God hears us and knows everything that we are going through. We can turn to Him at any point for help. But just like Jesus did not respond right away, sometimes God doesn't answer us immediately. But God has got a plan and a purpose for everything, so we can trust Him always that He has got everything under control, even though we may not see that right away, or understand how whatever it is will work out. But He works everything out for the good, and on His perfect timing. Don't give up praying and asking God to intervene in the situation. Keep praying and asking God for guidance. Seeking Him and His will in every situation. While you are waiting for the answered prayer stay actively doing whatever He calls you to do in that time. Don't give up and just sit around and wait. Because in the middle of every trial, God has got a plan and a purpose. His Word is evidence for us on how God works, just like Mary and Martha saw the miracles Jesus did. When we are steadily seeking Him, we will walk in His light, and we will not stumble.