A Work of A.R.T.

Then Jesus told them plainly, "Lazarus is dead.  And for your sake, I am glad I wasn't there, because this will give you another opportunity to believe in me.  Come, let's go see him."  John 11:14-15

Recently I have gone through some situations, in which parts of my life have "died."  I have had to really press into God for understanding because it is a confusing time.  Just as the disciples stood there, knowing it was not God's will for their friend to die, we sometimes stand there knowing that a certain area of our life is not supposed to die either.  It is not God's will & we have peace about that.  So why would he allow it to happen?  I'm not saying everytime something "dies" in our life, that it is God's will to reserrect it... BUT it just might be.  Seek Him, ask Him, be real- open, honest, etc. with Him.  He will reveal to you if He is going to resurrect this area of your life. 

Jesus is no longer on earth w/ us, but He sent His Holy Spirit to guide & empower us!  He tells us to speak to the dry bones in our life.  Read Ezekiel 37 for more on this.  I personally grow the most when I am in a valley.  Do you?  If so, then be of cheer even though it's a dark time or there are areas of darkness.  Praise God from where you are!  He promises good things to those who love Him. 

What areas in your life are dead or dry?...  Finances?  Marriage?  Work?  Health?  Etc.?  Be obedient in these areas as He leads you, but also SPEAK life into these areas!  Speak love, encouragement, etc. into a dry marriage.  Praise God for the finances you Do have & if you are tithing 10% (being obedient) then look up verses on finances & speak them aloud over yours, pray them over your finances!  We truly cannot outgive God.  Andy & I are a living testimony to this for over 1 year now.  Confess that you have favor at work!  Pray for favor w/ family members, friends, etc.  I think you get the point. :)  Speak life, not death.  Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. ~Proverbs 18:21.

So in answer to my question above... why would God allow these things to sometimes happen?  It just might be to draw you closer to Him.  To build your faith.  To teach you a new thing.  To bring you resurrection life!  To God be the glory!!  The thief comes to kill, steal & destroy BUT Christ came so that we can enjoy an Abundant Life!  John 10:10  When we are sick, struggling in our marriage or finances, etc. it takes our eyes off of Jesus.  This is satan's plan.  Do not allow him to be successfull!  Allow God to bring resurrection life!!  To ALL areas of your life.  He wants to, you know!?!  He is waiting for you to Believe!  To do your part & stand in faith, patiently waiting for Him to complete the work!!  Just as he did w/ Lazarus.  Read the story... it's a good one!  Be encouraged friends & let's live a powerful life together!!