ROLL BACK THAT STONE

A few years ago, I felt “stuck” in my faith. I knew there was more of God to be seen and experienced than I had known. I began to pray, “Lord - if you’re the God that does miracles, raises people from the dead, heals the sick, brings the prodigal home - I want to see it - I’m willing to be uncomfortable that I might know the Truth.”

It’s a dangerous prayer, but how God has answered has changed my life in every way. I’ve seen God do things I just can’t explain time and time again - more than I could write down at this moment.

I think I’ve always identified a lot with the people at Lazarus’ tomb when Jesus tells them to roll back the stone and open the grave.

They feared the dead body inside would smell too bad (he was dead for four days.) They were willing to accept the fate of their friends’ death rather than risk looking foolish to experience resurrection life.

Jesus then says, “Did I not tell you that if you believe you will see the glory of God?” (Vs. 40)

We all know that when they finally rolled back the stone - Lazarus came out alive. History was rewritten.

I feel like I lived so much of my life with a “stone,” keeping me from an abundant faith-filled life.

And there’s not necessarily shame in that - that’s what our culture teaches us, that’s what our flesh craves - safety, predictably, comfort.

But man, have I learned that there’s a whole new life in the Spirit - waiting and available to us if we’d just be willing to ask, seek and knock on the door until it opens.

I don’t have it all figured out, but I have seen God change my heart and my story in such a powerful way, and I’m praying that through this song, someone else might find the faith to roll back the stone and see what Jesus can do if we would let Him. After all, Jesus changes Everything.

Reflect:

As we begin this journey together, take some time and ask God to speak to you.

• Are you willing to trade your comfort or the illusion of your control for the presence and Power of God being released in your life on full display?
• What “Stone” might God ask you to roll back in your life?
• Is there an area in your life where you have succumbed to unbelief?

Come back to faith today, and let’s believe that He can do more than we could imagine!

Taylor Gall, Thrive Worship