Now when He had said these things, He cried with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come forth!” And he who had died came out bound hand and foot with graveclothes, and his face was wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Loose him, and let him go.” (John 11:43-44).
In the biblical account above, Jesus commanded Lazarus to come from the dead, come out from inside the tomb where he was. Then He ordered that his clothes be removed.
Many people, when dealing with family members, put on graveclothes, saying: “He is a hopeless case”, “I’ve done everything,” or “My marriage is over.” They even rub in each other’s face things they did in the past.
Think about it. Perhaps they don’t understand the language that’s being used. Why not just adopt positive attitudes instead of using harsh words? A smile instead of a bitter spirit?
Take off the graveclothes and put on the clothes of the living, both in your words and actions. In so doing, you will help those who rely on your spiritual assistance.