FOLLOWING THE LORD REQUIRES A CHANGE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND ACTIONS

BIBLE PASSAGE:
Then Thomas (also known as Didymus) said to the rest of the disciples, 
“Let us also go, that we may die with him.” 
(John 11:16)

MEDITATION:
When Jesus heard that his friend Lazarus was sick, 
he waited two days until the appropriate time for Him to go see him.
So when he heard that Lazarus was sick, 
he stayed where he was two more days, (John 11:6)

In His conversation with the disciples, we can see that Lazarus 
had already passed away, so delaying two days had no impact on his condition.
However, when He arrived, the impact on the people 
would be awesome and He and God would be glorified. 
When he heard this, Jesus said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it 
is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.” (John 11:4)

Jesus explained the condition of Lazarus to His disciples 
and told them it was time to go see him, even though he had passed.
But He also told them their faith would be strengthened 
by what they would witness in Judea.
So then he told them plainly, “Lazarus is dead, and for your sake I am glad 
I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.” (John 11:14-15)

However, the disciples were reluctant to go with Him and reminded Jesus 
of the dangers He had encountered when He was there previously.
“But Rabbi,” they said, “a short while ago the Jews there tried to stone you,
and yet you are going back?” (John 11:8)

They were fearful that someone would try to take the life of Jesus.
And of course if they went with Him, their lives could be in danger as well.
They were in a dilemma as to what they should do.
Should they stop following the Lord in order to protect themselves,
or should they continue with their commitment to follow Him always?

Maybe it was because Jesus told them their faith in Him would be increased 
if they went, but for whatever reason, Thomas told the others that they 
should go, even if it could meant death for them all.
They had already stepped out on faith 
when they gave up everything to follow Him.
And now, they were willing to risk their own lives to continue following Him.
Can’t you just imagine the conversations 
they had with each other on the way to Judea?

ACTION:
The disciples were fully committed to the Lord 
and were even willing to risk their lives to follow Him.
Have You fully committed to the Lord?
Is there anything preventing you from following Him completely?
What have you given up or risked in order to follow Him?

Pray,
“Heavenly Father, forgive me if I have not fully committed to 
following You. Help me to overcome all obstacles that prevent 
me from total commitment to You. Remind me of how You gave 
Your life for me so that I will be willing to give mine for You. 
Show me how and where I can prove my faith in You, not only 
to others but to myself as well.” 

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