“What was Jesus’ message to Martha and Mary and to all who experienced the evidence of [the raising of Lazarus]? It is the simple message that Jesus is. Wherever Jesus is, there one finds the full operation of the fullness of Jesus. . . . There is no more left of Jesus to show up. All of Him is present with you. All of Him has been with you. And all of Him will continue to be with you.”- Dr. Charles F. Stanley
“You (the Father) always hear me, but I said it out loud for the sake of all these people standing here, so that they will believe you sent me.”- John 11:42 (NLT)
Dr. Charles Stanley concludes Chapter 4 of Can You Still Trust God? as he refers to John’s gospel account of the raising of Lazarus (John 11:1-45). Like Mary and Martha, we wonder why Jesus took so long to show up.
Above all, Dr. Stanley underscores, Jesus’ seemingly late appearance never signified a lack of His presence. Rather, Christ appeared in such a way and in the fullness of time for a specific reason. That those in need might truly become aware of His presence.
Therefore, Dr. Stanley offers two suggestions when you fail to experience the presence of Jesus in your storm or time of trouble:
- Ask the Lord to reveal what’s keeping you from experiencing His full and immediate presence.
- To gain an awareness of Jesus’ presence, ask Him what He desires that you recognize, learn, or experience
In conclusion, Dr. Stanley states it’s crucial that you ask the Lord to help you recognize every person He sends to help you . Because Jesus may choose to send precise help in the form of a specific messenger of God’s love and mercy.
So, ask Jesus just who He’s using as His agent to facilitate His perfect plan and purpose in your life. Perhaps someone you least expected!
Today’s question : What helps you experience the full operation of Jesus’ presence? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Three basic steps for effective prayer”
