God Doesn't Always Prevent, But Sometimes He Permits

I was intrigued reading through the other morning. The account of Lazarus’s death. And it’s interesting to me that when Jesus was told of his failing condition, He didn’t alter His plans to rush to his bedside. Jn 11:6 says, rather, “He stayed where He was for the next two days.”

Jesus delays. Some versions say He tarried. He was unrushed. Unhurried. Seemingly unbothered by His good friend’s condition.

And scholars tell us He was only about 25 miles from Lazarus’s home.

And I wonder today if it’s how many of us in seasons of waiting feel. Because so often the Lord’s ways are in reverse of our own. Many times it’s just at the moment our endurance seems to be expiring that we ask, “Is hope still possible?” And the Lord says, “I’ll remain here another two days.” And we allow doubt to creep in. Because His chosen style of acting is not our preferred method of learning.

And yet so it was in scripture... “... and He will change His mind about His servants when He sees their strength is gone.” (Deut 32:36). Oh that we’d recognize Him as the great Rescuer!

And I see it now, the faithful Father uses suffering, making it the necessary evidence of love and cleverest instrument of profit!

God directs us not to judge Him based on outward appearances or make a hasty assumption of His goodness based on the darkness in unfavorable conditions, but to base all belief on the sure word of His promise!

God’s general answer to all people is: “For the glory of God.” And His delay is by design.
Jesus was allowing them to cry out from the depths of their beings, so that afterwards they might be able to say it out loud to those around them: “O hope in the Lord; for with the Lord there is unfailing love. His redemption overflows!” (Ps 130:7)

Jesus made no sign of movement. But no sign of movement is never evidence that He isn’t moving!
Ahh that we could be like David and say, “From the ends of the earth I cry to you for help when my heart is overwhelmed.” (Ps 61:2)

God’s purpose in delay is often a result of lovingkindness and essential to the development of our soul. It’s forming great preparation in us to receive the blessing!