1-800-John 11

Mary & Martha called the 1-800 number – verse 3: the sisters sent to Him saying, “Lord, he whom you love is ill.” (ESV)
Verse 4: But when Jesus heard it he said, “this illness does not lead to death”. (ESV)
Verse 5: Jesus loved these two women & Lazarus.
Verse 6: Jesus didn’t go immediately. There’s silence for Mary & Martha. I believe Mary & Martha were beside themselves.

Umm, any wonder why? Hey, their brother was dying and Jesus wasn’t responding fast enough! Ever felt this way? I have!!

In this story we find Martha struggling more openly than Mary. It’s obvious that these sisters were wired differently. Sure is interesting to see how God doesn’t create us all the same.

When I am in a circumstance that requires God’s help “NOW” I can be a Martha. I will loudly, openly cry out to the Lord. And, I can be loud!!!! And, waiting is not always easy for me. I’ve learned to wait, but it took lots of pruning…and He’s still pruning me. I haven’t attained it all yet. Phil 1:6 – And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. Someday I will be complete!!

We all have our grief to deal with. Whom do you call upon first: The Lord Jesus or a friend?

There have been many times in my life where I’ve openly, loudly called upon the Lord – and some of those times God has been silent. One very painful circumstance that I can’t even explain the pain: I couldn’t even speak – I cried desperately to the Lord – God heard my cry, He opened a door quickly for me to speak with a godly biblical counselor that very day. It’s not necessary to give details, but what is necessary is that God helped me to grow closer to Him, and not to crumble up and feel sorry for myself. No pity party, but a heart that was pruned by God. It was painful for some years, but in that time I can tell you that God’s peace was always with me. I can praise God for the work He did and is still doing in my heart. Ladies, we need to be real, especially if we are going to walk alongside another woman to help her grow in Christ.

It is always for our good to call upon the Lord first and wait upon Him. Remember this, God may be silent but God sees, God knows and God cares! Just like He cared about Mary, Martha & Lazarus – In all our grief God wants us to Believe Him; Have Faith in Him and Walk closely with Him.

I’ve seen God change & restore many relationships. And, all of them Believed God, had Faith in Him and are Walking closely with Him.

There’s Victory in Jesus

“My help comes from the Lord”
Psalm 121¬ (1) I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? (2) My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven & earth.

Blessings,
Pat Spies
A Servant of the Lord and a Friend of Keswick