John 12

Scripture

“Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in him.  But because of the Pharisees they would not confess their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue;  for they loved praise from men more than praise from God.”

-John 12:43-43

Observation

These men had seen Jesus perform miracles and speak in person.  They had not read about it or been told about it by some church leader like we are in this age.  They had seen the Son of Man with their own eyes.  It says they even believed.  However they would not confess their faith because of fear.  They placed a higher importance on the praise of others than praise from God.

Application

I will not be afraid to talk about God and Church in front of coworkers and friends that are nonbelievers.  In the past when I had a bible study or some other church function and somebody would ask for me to go out with them I would tell them I had other plans, but would be vague.  It is not until recently that I have started to be specific.  This has given me a great opportunity to confess my faith to others.  Before I would say I am not going to say anything because they wouldn’t understand.  That was wrong though, because I should have said it for just that reason. We should talk to the ones that don’t understand or we perceive just don’t get it.  Because in the end just like us they need it.

Prayer

God, please help me to release the fear of confessing my faith.  Give me strength to seek your praise and not the praise of others.  You are such a great and awesome God that deserves our whole effort.  You have given me everything I have and will provide everything I ever will need.  Let me not fear what others will think but do what is right in your eyes.  Amen.