Be Encouraged, He Is Never Too Late

In our journey through life, we often encounter moments that test our faith and patience. We find ourselves in situations where, despite our fervent prayers and unwavering hope, it seems like God is silent. It’s in these moments of silence and waiting that the story of Lazarus in John 11 becomes a profound source of encouragement, reminding us that no matter how long it takes, it’s never too late for God.

The story begins with a message reaching Jesus that his beloved friend Lazarus is gravely ill. Yet, rather than rushing to Lazarus’ side, Jesus continues his work and waits for four days before setting out to see him. By the time Jesus arrives, Lazarus has already died and been buried. Imagine the anguish and confusion that must have gripped the hearts of the mourners, especially Mary and Martha, Lazarus’ sisters. They must have felt abandoned, betrayed even, by the very person they believed could save their brother.

Martha’s words in John 11:21-23 capture this sentiment perfectly: “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.” Jesus’ response, “Your brother will rise again,” sets the stage for one of the most profound miracles in the Bible. As we read further, in John 11:35, the Bible records, “Jesus wept.” This verse, though brief, speaks volumes about Jesus’ compassion. He felt the pain of loss, not just for Lazarus but also for the sorrow of Mary and Martha.

Despite the seemingly hopeless situation, Jesus asked to be taken to Lazarus’ tomb. There, he reminded Mary and Martha of his earlier promise, and then, in a powerful display of divine authority, he called Lazarus forth from the grave. Lazarus emerged, alive and well, after four days in the tomb.

The lesson here is clear: God’s timing is perfect, even when it seems delayed from our perspective. Just as Jesus resurrected Lazarus, God can breathe life into our seemingly dead situations.

We are not alone in feeling that God delays. The Bible is full of stories where people felt their prayers went unanswered, only to see God act in His perfect timing. Consider Abraham and Sarah, who waited decades for the promised son, Isaac. Despite their old age and initial doubts, God fulfilled His promise in a way that underscored His power and faithfulness.

Then there’s Joseph, who endured years of slavery and imprisonment. It must have seemed like God had forgotten him, but through those trials, God positioned Joseph to save Egypt and his own family from famine. And let’s not forget the Israelites, who wandered in the desert for 40 years before reaching the Promised Land. Their journey was long and arduous, but it was in God’s perfect timing that they entered Canaan.

Similarly, in our lives, we might be praying for a job, a spouse, or healing, and it feels like heaven is silent. But take heart—He is never late. Jesus’ words in John 11:42 remind us, “I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me.” Sometimes, God’s delays are not denials but divine setups for something greater, something that will ultimately strengthen our faith and bring glory to Him.

Be encouraged, because He is never late. In His perfect timing, God will answer your prayers in ways that will make you believe anew in His sovereignty and love. Trust in His process, for He always hears you and is always working for your good.