Looking For Lazarus?

1 Chronicles 16:28-29; Psalm 48:1; Psalm 63:1; Psalm 71:8; Psalm 103:1; Revelation 5:13

In John chapter 12 we see Jesus dining with Lazarus whom He had recently raised from the dead. When the people hear that Jesus is in town they come to see Him. But He's not the only one they come to see. John 12:9 says "the large crowd of the Jews then learned that He (Jesus) was there; and they came, not for Jesus’ sake only, but that they might also see Lazarus, whom He raised from the dead." (NASB) It seems the crowd was not only interested in the miracle worker, but also in seeing the miracle. 

Too often we get caught up in worshiping God for what He has done instead of simply worshiping Him for who He is. He is worthy of our praise, period! His worthiness is not based on what He has done or helped us accomplish. Our praise for Him should not be based on how much He has given us or what He will do to make our lives easier. We are to seek His face, not just His hand.

When it comes to worshiping God, our position should be that of Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego as they faced possible death for refusing to bow down to Nebuchadnezzar's false gods. They replied to Nebuchadnezzar that their God would save them from his fiery furnace, but then declared “even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we are not going to serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.” (Daniel 3:18) Their worship for God was not based on whether or not He would save them. They were going to worship God no matter what.

As we offer our praise, let us be careful not to worship the things that God has created but the God that created all things. He alone is worthy of our praise!

Psalm 96:4 (NASB) For great is the Lord and greatly to be praised; He is to be feared above all gods.

Pastor Mike Deese