January 5, 2021
21 Days of Hunger - Day 2
John 11:33-35
For our second day of fasting and praying, I would like to emphasize how much God loves and cares for each and every one of us. For some of us, this season of fasting and prayer will be life giving. The past couple of months have been devastating, and for many of us, 2020 took an emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual toll. My prayer is that this time of prayer and fasting will provide a needed moment of restoration and reset. And guess what? That’s ok!!!
Being spiritually strong does not mean that you and I will not experience moments of fatigue. Being a man or woman of faith does not mean you will not cry when your friend or family member passes away. Being a prayer warrior does not mean that you will not face moments when your prayers lack words. What it does mean is that you are a human being with feelings, and God loves you.
In John chapter 11, we get an inside look at what took place when Jesus received word that his close friend was severely sick. Instead of immediately rushing to his friend’s aid...he took his time. Why? Because he mentions that it was a part of God’s ultimate plan. Ultimately, Jesus makes his move only after the death of his friend, Lazarus. The family is devastated...not because Jesus lacked the power to save Lazarus...but because he didn’t move quick enough to save him.
What I find most amazing about this scenario was the fact that Jesus already knew that he was going to bring Lazarus back to life, but he was still moved...emotionally. “When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her also weeping, He was deeply moved in spirit and was troubled, and said, “Where have you laid him?” They *said to Him, “Lord, come and see.” Jesus wept.” (John 11:33-35) Jesus wept. He cried because he felt the pain that others were feeling. Even though he knew that they would be laughing and rejoicing in a few minutes, he was still moved by their broken hearts.
Be encouraged today because God’s omniscience and sovereignty does not result in Him being cold-hearted. He feels our grief, and understands our pain, and with that knowledge, understand that He will work all things together for the good, especially for those who love Him and who are called according to His purpose. So, don't remain demoralized and paralyzed by grief. Keep moving forward in faith. Let this season of fasting and prayer give you the strength to move forward. Remember, even though Jesus wept, he still spoke life...and Lazarus came out of the tomb. Hallelujah! There is life on the other side of your tears. Weeping may endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning.
Don’t let your tears keep you from speaking life!!!
