Many people did believe in [Jesus], however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn't admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue. For they loved human praise more than the praise of God.
—John 12:42-43 NLT
What would make you afraid to show your faith? To lose one's place in the synagogue was a huge loss for someone in Jesus' day. While we rightfully are disgusted with the lack of courage and integrity by those mentioned in these verses, we need to ask ourselves how often have we failed to stand up for Jesus when the stakes were even lower. The real issue with fear and faith is our confidence in what we believe. If we truly believe in Jesus, how could we give him up? If we truly want to honor God, then how could the approval of mere mortal people become more important? God calls us to love him without a rival. Anything that interferes with our honoring God becomes our idol, even if it is the fear of rejection or the desire for popularity.
Father, give me the courage to stand up and confess my faith in Jesus with graciousness. I truly believe that you sent Jesus to die for my sins and give me power over sin and death. Regardless of other people's acceptance or rejection of me because of my faith, please help me live that faith before the people with whom I interact. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Ⓒ 1996-2022 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
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—John 12:42-43 NLT
Key Thought
What would make you afraid to show your faith? To lose one's place in the synagogue was a huge loss for someone in Jesus' day. While we rightfully are disgusted with the lack of courage and integrity by those mentioned in these verses, we need to ask ourselves how often have we failed to stand up for Jesus when the stakes were even lower. The real issue with fear and faith is our confidence in what we believe. If we truly believe in Jesus, how could we give him up? If we truly want to honor God, then how could the approval of mere mortal people become more important? God calls us to love him without a rival. Anything that interferes with our honoring God becomes our idol, even if it is the fear of rejection or the desire for popularity.
Today's Prayer
Father, give me the courage to stand up and confess my faith in Jesus with graciousness. I truly believe that you sent Jesus to die for my sins and give me power over sin and death. Regardless of other people's acceptance or rejection of me because of my faith, please help me live that faith before the people with whom I interact. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Related Scripture Readings
Ⓒ 1996-2022 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
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