The Power of Active Faith
When it comes to our relationship with God, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea that simply believing in Him is enough. But as James 2:14 reminds us, “What’s the use of saying you have faith if you don’t prove it by your actions? That kind of faith can’t save anyone.” Faith without action is hollow and ineffective.
The Delayed Answer
Have you ever wondered why God sometimes delays in answering our prayers? Why help can seem so slow in coming? Mary and Martha, the sisters of Lazarus, must have asked themselves these very questions when their brother fell ill and Jesus didn’t rush to their side. By the time Jesus finally arrived, Lazarus had been dead and buried for four days.
A Lesson in Trust
Martha, in her grief and frustration, ran out to meet Jesus, saying, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” She believed that Jesus had the power to heal, but she saw no way He could help now that Lazarus was gone. Yet, she still held onto hope, trusting that Jesus had a special connection with God and that His prayers would make a difference. But Martha’s faith was incomplete; she failed to make it practical.
From Belief to Action
Martha’s story teaches us that believing in Jesus is not just about intellectual assent or emotional sentiment. It’s about putting our trust into action, even when we can’t see the way forward. When Jesus told Martha to roll away the stone from Lazarus’ tomb, she hesitated, citing the obvious obstacles. But when she finally surrendered her doubts and obeyed, Jesus was able to work a miracle, raising Lazarus from the dead.
Why God Delays
So why does God sometimes delay in answering our prayers? Perhaps it’s because He wants to lead us beyond a mere program of beliefs to a personal, intimate relationship with Him. He wants to show us another facet of His power, to give us an opportunity to trust Him even when we can’t see the way forward.
A Call to Action
Are you facing an insurmountable problem, wondering why God seems slow to respond? Remember Martha’s story. Remember that faith without action is empty. Take a step of trust today, surrendering your doubts and fears to God. Invite Him to come into your situation and work it out for His glory and your good.
Prayer
Dear God, increase my faith. I surrender my doubts and fears and preconceived ideas. I invite you to come into this situation and work it out for Your glory and my good.
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