"This illness does not lead to death. It is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.”

Text: John 11:1-44

Scripture doesn't sugarcoat the struggles of this life. In fact, Jesus stressed that following Him would result in additional suffering. Jesus told his disciples that despite their trouble in the world, they could experience peace because Jesus overcame the world (John 16:33). 

Always Interpret Your Suffering By God's Love; Don't Interpret His Love By Your Suffering
In our text, Jesus told his disciples that Lazarus' illness was "for the glory of God so that the Son of God may be glorified through it." Throughout the telling of this event, there is an emphasis on Jesus' love for Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. We are prone to think God’s love is about Him making much of us. But the most loving thing Jesus can do is to point Martha to His divine authority as the resurrection and the life so she could make much of Him. 

The Apostle Peter also reminds us of the need to have God's perspective on suffering. He writes, "In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes through it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 1:6-7). When our faith remains strong through suffering, it brings God praise and glory.

We need constant reminders of God's grace, love, and faithfulness because confusion, questioning, and feeling unloved is our natural reaction during suffering. God has given us His Word and a Christ-centered community to remind us and encourage us to stand strong in our faith. Are you in community? Are you reading and praying over His Word?

31 Days Toward Trusting God
Jerry Bridges wrote his book Trusting God Even When Life Hurts as he watched his wife slowly die. Fifteen years later he wrote a daily devotion book based on his earlier work. 31 Days Toward Trusting God is short and simple but full of the Biblical truth we need. Copies will be available in the resource area on Sunday, or it can be ordered online.