LIVING WORD DEVOTIONAL*
By Pastor Mensa Otabil
Saturday 9th April 2022
LAZARUS’ TESTIMONY
Scripture Reading: John 12
Now a great many of the Jews knew that He was there; and they came, not for Jesus’ sake only, but that they might also see Lazarus, whom He had raised from the dead. But the chief priests plotted to put Lazarus to death also, because on account of him many of the Jews went away and believed in Jesus. John 12:9–11
Lazarus’ presence at table with Jesus was a remarkable testimony. People couldn’t get enough of him. The story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead after he had been buried for four days shook the community to its core. No one had seen such a thing in their lifetime.
There were two kinds of people who traveled to Bethany.
• Those who came to see Jesus and Lazarus. These were those who were inspired by the ministry of Jesus and the testimony of Lazarus. Their faith in God was affirmed by what had happened to Lazarus. Perhaps they felt that their impossible situations could also change for the better. In one place and at one table, people saw Jesus (who had raised the dead) and Lazarus (who had been raised from the dead). Their presence together inspired many.
Just as Lazarus’ testimony drew many to the Lord, our testimony of what the Lord has done in our lives can too. There’s great power in testifying of God’s works done on our behalf. It is a humbling and exciting prospect that the Lord can receive glory on account of His goodness and mercies to us and draw people to Himself through them.
But there was another group in the multitude.
• Those who plotted against Jesus and Lazarus. Sad to say, what inspired the followers of Jesus, incensed those who hated Him. That’s the way life is, sometimes. The major religious leaders of Jesus’ time could not stand Him. But they extended their hatred beyond Jesus and unto those who have been blessed by Jesus.
Lazarus had a powerful testimony, yet not everyone was happy with him. We learn from this experience that God’s blessings on us can provoke some people to anger. Don’t be so surprised when people take offense at what the Lord has done for you. The good news is that their anger cannot stop or slow down what the Lord has done and will continue to do in your life.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, do something in my life and with my life that will draw souls to you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.