THE FAITH OF MARTHA

"Then said Martha to Jesus, 'If you had been here Lord, my brother would not have died! But I know that even now, God will give you whatever you ask of him'." John 11:21-23 (GNT)

The Story

When I read this popular story again, I realised something I never saw when I first read the story.

Remember, Lazarus, friend of Jesus fell sick and died. While he was sick, Mary and Martha sent for Jesus, who was at Jerusalem.

Jesus deliberately delayed, and told his disciples that he wants to use that case to reveal the glory of God the more.

Four days after Lazarus died of the illness, Jesus showed up. It seemed like medicine after death. On hearing of Jesus' arrival, Martha got up to meet with him.

When she met Him, she expressed her believe in the ability of Jesus to help her brother, with these words: '...if you had been here, my brother would not have died.. (nevertheless) I know that EVEN NOW, God will give you whatever you ask of Him'.

Wow! This is dogged faith. In the face of a situation as death! Jesus answered, 'Your brother shall live again.' Great!

He went straightway, prayed to the Father, and called forth Lazarus from the tomb.

Why Do We Need Faith?

Faith taps into the powers of God

You may think what Martha said contributed less because Jesus already intended to raise Lazarus.

That may be true. But more certain is that the faith expressed by Martha encouraged Jesus to perform, because to them that believe, there shall be a performance.

In addition, do you remember the story of the woman whose son was sick in Matthew 15:22-28 ?

In this case, Jesus seemingly showed little interest, but the woman demonstrated faith. Thus, Jesus could not hold back, he gave out the healing.

Exercise Faith Today

Without faith, it is IMPOSSIBLE to please God. He/she that goes to God, must firstly (not dress fine or have enough money), but BELIEVE that He exist, and that He is a Rewarder of them who diligently seek Him. [Hebrew 11:6]

Believe that God can, and proclaim it as Martha did.

Even now, God can do it!

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