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Scripture: John 11:38-40: 38 Then Jesus, deeply moved again, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against it. 39 Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” Martha, the sister of the dead man, said to him, “Lord, by this time there will be an odor, for he has been dead four days.” 40 Jesus said to her, “Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God?”
Introduction
In John 11:38-40, we encounter a powerful moment where human reasoning collides with divine possibility. Lazarus had been dead for four days, sealed in a tomb, and the natural response of Martha was to state the obvious: “Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days.” Her words reflect the voice of logic and reason, the same voice many of us hear in the closets of our minds when we face seemingly impossible situations.
We all have these inner conversations. They whisper, “It’s too late,” “It’s over,” or “This situation cannot change” or “This situation cannot be redeemed.” These thoughts feed doubt, reinforcing reasons not to trust God. But then, Jesus speaks words that cut through the noise of despair: “Did I not say to you that if you would believe, you would see the glory of God?”
This is not just a statement; it’s a call to faith that transcends human understanding. Jesus is reminding Martha and us that belief is the key to seeing God’s glory revealed, even in the most hopeless circumstances.
Facing the Stone in Your Life
In life, we often face “stones” that block us from experiencing God’s power. It might be fear, doubt, past disappointments, or the seeming finality of our circumstances. Like Martha, we might find ourselves reasoning with God, explaining why the situation is beyond help. But Jesus challenges us to trust Him beyond what we see, feel, or understand.
The Stench of Hopelessness: Martha’s concern about the odor represents our fear of failure, embarrassment, or confronting something painful. We avoid trusting God because it seems safer to leave the “stone” unmoved. But faith requires action, it means rolling away the stone and trusting that God’s power is greater than our fears.
The Promise of God’s Glory: Jesus didn’t just promise to solve the immediate problem; He pointed to something greater: the revelation of God’s glory. In every trial, God has a plan to display His power, love, and sovereignty. But the prerequisite is belief.
Trust Beyond Logic
Sometimes, God asks us to take a step of faith that defies logic. It’s not easy. The human mind naturally resists surrendering control. But faith isn’t about ignoring reality, it’s about believing that God’s power can override reality.
When you’re tempted to give up, remember:
God’s Power Knows No Limits: Lazarus was dead for four days, yet Jesus brought him back to life. No situation is too far gone for God to redeem.
God’s Timing Is Perfect: Jesus delayed coming to Bethany until Lazarus was dead. What seemed like a delay was actually part of His greater plan.
God’s Glory Is the Goal: The outcome of every situation is meant to point back to His glory, strengthening our faith and the faith of others.
Conclusion
What stone are you facing today? What conversation are you having in your mind that’s holding you back from trusting God fully? Perhaps it’s fear that a relationship can’t be restored, doubt that a prayer will be answered, or despair over a situation that feels too broken to fix.
Be encouraged: God specializes in the impossible. Trust Him, even when it feels risky. His word is true, and His promises are sure. Jesus didn’t let the stench of death stop Him, and He won’t let the obstacles in your life stop Him from working. All He asks is that you believe.
As you take steps of faith, you will see the glory of God in your life. Your story will be a testimony to others and to you, proving that when we trust Him, even the dead places in our lives can be brought back to life. So, roll away the stone, and trust Him to do what only He can do.
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