The Strength of Relationship

Tuesday 22 August
READ: John 11:1-12
MORE LESSON: I John 3:1-2

The value that God attaches to relationship is epitomised by Jesus' relationship with Lazarus as recorded in our text. First, in verse 1, Lazarus is referred to as a “certain” sick man and then we learn that Lazarus and the other ladies, Mary and Martha, are from the same town. In verse 2, we are told that these ladies have a relationship with Lazarus, he is their brother. I'm sure by this explanation God wants to emphasise the importance of relationship.
Another level of relationship is introduced in verse 5, Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. This is Jesus' relationship with the whole family. But of particular interest today is the information in verse 11, …Our friend Lazarus…., which is a personal relationship between Jesus, His disciples and Lazarus.
The strength of this personal relationship was noticed when Jesus got to the graveside of Lazarus, Jesus wept: John 11:35. Such was their closeness that in spite of knowing that Lazarus was going to rise, Jesus still felt so much for Lazarus’ temporary affliction by death. In fact, the Jews standing-by noted, Behold how he loved him! v 36.
All this is a wake - up call to every believer that Christianity is all about loving one another, caring and feeling for one another in the household of faith. Regardless of denomination, tribe or
tongue, the Church must be one. It was the strength of relationship that sustained Jonathan’s son after Jonathan’s tragic death with his father, King Saul, And David said, Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may shew him kindness for Jonathan's sake: 2 Sam. 9:1. It was relationship that made us God’s children and joint heir with Jesus, But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ: Eph. 2:13. God values his relationship with us, that was why He gave His Son for us and is preparing a place for us where He is. Brethen, let’s value relationship with one another, let’s build and not destroy godly relationship by all means.

Prayer/Action
* Give God thanks for all the people He has surrounded you with, in Jesus’ name.
* Ask God to make the relationships a strength and blessing, in Jesus’ name.
* Ask God that the relationship you keep will affect you positively, in Jesus’ name.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER
My sun will shine above the dark cloud, my days of glory are here and I shall live to see it, in the mighty name of Jesus.