Then Thomas (also known as Didymus) said to the rest of the disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with Him.” (John 11v16 NIV) They only saw the world through their own eyes.  Influenced by what they saw, heard and felt.  That is normal but when you meet Jesus everything changes.  What used to make sense doesn't any more.  What seemed mysterious suddenly makes sense.  This is the work of the Holy Spirit revealing the Kingdom of God to you. He is revealing reality to you. A greater reality. It is like waking up from a dream. A [...]

After he had said this, he went on to tell them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up.” (John 11v11 NIV) Don’t be put off. Don’t allow confusion to overwhelm you. When Jesus speaks to you He can be a little bit cryptic.  He is talking about a greater truth. He means to show you something profoundly important.  You may wonder why He said what He did. I do, often. He is trying to show you what it looks like from His perspective. His answers often seem to fit another question. He [...]

It is when a person walks at night that they stumble, for they have no light.” (John 11v10 NIV) If you are led by your thoughts, feelings and emotions you are being led by something unreliable.  Walking in the light means to walk by the light of the Holy Spirit.  That light is inside of you. How bright is it? Has it dimmed? Has all hope, joy and passion evaporated? There is only one absolute truth.  There are no certainties except Jesus.  His reality is greater than yours. He is The Light not a light.  He is The Truth not [...]

Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours of daylight? Anyone who walks in the daytime will not stumble, for they see by this world’s light” (John 11v9 NIV) Jesus was aware of the real dangers. Yet He wasn't about to avoid them. He was led by the Spirit, not by feelings, whether they be fear or pleasure. He was walking in the light, not allowing the darkness around Him to cause Him to stumble. There was resistance even from the disciples. You will inevitably face resistance if you decide to follow Jesus. Learn to be led by the Holy Spirit. [...]

“But Rabbi,” they said, “a short while ago the Jews there tried to stone you, and yet you are going back?” (John 11v8 NIV) The disciples wondered if Jesus was going to commit suicide.  They knew the dangers He and they faced.  They saw the threats and tried to persuade Him otherwise. Their comments were an attempt to get Him to change His mind.  Jesus knew exactly what He was doing.  Even if they didn’t.  Your walk with Him is different to anyone else’s.  It is not identical from one person to the next.  He may take you on a [...]

and then He said to His disciples, “Let us go back to Judea.” (John 11v7 NIV) After two days He decides it is time.  Did He wait on purpose or was He needed there for those extra two days?  We simply don't know. Waiting is part of walking with God. It isn’t just about you. Sometimes it is also about others.  God may be waiting for them. He is patient. So should we.  Are you willing to wait for others if He is? Ask Him to help you wait.  To trust and to believe.  Perseverance, patience and persistence are often [...]

So when He heard that Lazarus was sick, He stayed where He was two more days, (John 11v6 NIV) This seems a strange response. Why didn’t He hurry back? He didn't just take His time. He knew that delaying might upset Mary and Martha. He ran the risk that they wouldn’t understand. He knew that it was for a greater purpose. When you pray, is there a delay in getting an answer? He knows the pain you feel. He knows the hurt that can eat away at you. He understands that disappointment can stop you enjoying life. But He is [...]

Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. (John 11v5 NIV) He loves you just as much.  There is no limit.  He isn't concerned or impressed with your social or economic background.  He doesn't favour the successful.  He doesn’t look to the intelligent and the strong.  You are not disqualified if you are not an achiever.  Don't disqualify yourself. How much do you love your life? Ask Him why He made you. Ask Him how much He loves you. Write down what He tells you.  Ask Him regularly how much He loves you.  It will take time to fully [...]

When he heard this, Jesus said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.” (John 11v4 NIV) This was Jesus' declaration of faith.  He was making a statement which appeared not to be true. Lazarus did die (but not for long).  However, He made it clear that there was a bigger issue here.  He recognised what this event would signify.  Are you willing to allow God to be glorified in and through you?  It may not be comfortable but it will be glorious.  Do you still [...]

So the sisters sent word to Jesus, “Lord, the one you love is sick.” (John 11v3 NIV) They cared for Lazarus, yet they knew where their hope was.  They turned to the One who could help them.  The One who could heal Lazarus.  They needed Him to come straight away, for they knew Lazarus was gravely ill.  He didn't come straight away, even though He got the message. They waited for Him to come. Are you still waiting or have you given up? Remind yourself of what you have prayed for. Then remind Him. Starting with the things that are [...]