In biology, the Lazarus Effect refers to species and other organisms that appeared in one time period and then disappeared; only to reappear at a later period of time. Biologists were amazed at how a species could be alive and well at certain time and then seemingly go extinct. Then, this “extinct” species somehow comes back to life and reproduces. Biologists used the term Lazarus Effect based upon the New Testament account of Jesus miraculously raising His friend Lazarus from the dead. Biologists understood that it had to be a miracle for a species to do such a thing. Though some may not want to give credit to God for such a phenomenon, we can learn from this.

There are some things in our lives that can seem to be extinct. The love, joy, peace, and hope of some Christians has gone extinct. However, if species and other organisms in nature can experience the Lazarus Effect, how much the more those who have believed on the name of Christ. In this post, I want to encourage believers to stand in expectation of a Lazarus Effect in areas of their lives. In the same manner that Christ delivered Lazarus from the pangs of death, so will He deliver you from the pangs of hopelessness, despair, depression, and any other ailments (physical and spiritual) that may cause you to be like the ‘walking’ dead. From the story of Lazarus’ resurrection, we discover 7 truths to help us understand and experience the “real” Lazarus Effect.

1) FORSAKE the belief that past inactivity is a sign of insensitivity. Jesus delayed His coming because He wanted to perform something great in Lazarus’ life, not because Christ did not care; for we know He loved him. Do not think because your pain, suffering, or situation has lasted that God did not care or see your situation, he has been setting you up for a greater blessing.

2) FACE the reality that what we go through is not only for His glory, but also for others. Jesus used Lazarus’ death to give the disciples a chance to increase their faith. This is why He said that He was glad that He was not there with Lazarus for their sakes. In addition, Jesus used Lazarus’ situation as a way to give the onlookers and mourners the chance to believe on Him that He came from God. Sometimes, we go through in big and dramatic ways so that the move of God can bless others and in some instances bring others into the Kingdom of God.

3) FOUR days was required to silence doubt. Jesus arrived when Lazarus had been in the grave four days. He wanted to silence any doubt to the authenticity of the resurrection that was about to take place. This truth is the same for us. However long our ‘four days’ has been, it has been designed to kill any doubt that it was God who blessed you, healed you, allowed you to receive the promotion, elevated you in ministry, delivered your mind and heart, etc. Just do not give up before your ‘four days’ are complete for a Lazarus Effect will occur.

4) FAITHLESS people will frustrate the coming Lazarus Effect. Martha looked at the situation from a natural standpoint. She did not understand that if Jesus is on the scene, anything is possible. Do not allow the doubts of others to cause you to doubt what God can and will do in your life, regardless of past and present situations.

5) FORM relationships with those who believe beyond the facts of the situation in your life. After Mary talked to Jesus, He asked them for the place of Lazarus’ grave. The people could have refused. There had to be some element of faith or just plain curiosity to see what Jesus would do. You need people in your life who will pray for you and will cause you to allow Jesus into your places of extinction or death; whether through word or deed.

6) FOLLOW Christ to the place of death. After Christ was directed to the grave, the people followed Him. After you make your petition again, then follow Christ in faith, love, and hope into painful events of your past and present situations so that you can receive the Lazarus Effect.

7) FORGET the events of the past and go FORTH. At the gravesite, Martha still expressed doubt because she had watched her brother suffer, die, and be buried. Before you can receive the Lazarus Effect in your life, you have to allow the pain, frustration, and disappointments of what happened in life and in your relationship with God to be dispelled. It is the only way you will respond to what the Lord wants to do in your life presently; that is; give you a personal resurrection – an inner Lazarus Effect.

Again, this account demonstrates to us that no matter how bad it has been, Jesus can and will give us a resurrection. Stand in faith again. Trust His love again. Trust his faithfulness again. Receive all that He has for you. If species and organisms in nature can experience the Lazarus Effect, which have not faith, how much the more those who have put their faith in Christ? Lazarus, come forth!

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