Devotionals

BUT FOR JESUS

by Robert [Bob] Schaetzle Sr. 
05/31/22
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BUT FOR JESUS…
By Robert Schaetzle

Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” Martha, the sister of the dead man, said to him, “Lord, by this time there will be an odor, for he has been dead four days.” John 11:39 ESV

Jesus would perform the miracle, but He wanted someone to take away the stone. A demonstration and need for human obedience. Situations like this often have a place in God’s supernatural work of prayer. Even if it has a stink of disgust for us.

In praying for others about Jesus, the follower of Christ may need to roll back the stone of fear, error, prejudice, or even despair. Because it is still God, not the effectiveness of a persons witness-that raises the dead to bring new life. (a second birth)

Martha was fearful and anxious for Jesus to come, leaning upon her own strength. It becomes very difficult for us too, at times of high emotional unrest; to let our Lord in to lead.

It may not be the passing of a brother or other loved one of our own. But the quiet heart, listening to the voice of God’s presence, will bring a calm that Mary, Martha’s sister recognized.

From recent tragedies, both in Ukraine and Texas, I’ve been listening more and more, (in prayer), to recognize His presence to rest upon my own heart. For those who have suffered so much.

Then, when the Spirit leads, I make my petition through God’s preeminence for His extra measure of grace, strength, and hope. Especially for those filled with sorrow and need.

Father… bring us to the throne room of your Blessed Assurance… and those we pray for, to witness your power, the wonderful glory of God.

Robert Lives in Sunnyvale, CA serving in a Sharing and Caring Ministry