Scripture: John 13:42-43
42 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; 43 for they loved praise from men more than praise from God.
Observation: Those that believed in Jesus were unwilling to speak up because they needed acceptance from men around them. It was critical (in their minds) to be accepted by other men and they let that drive what they did rather than doing what they believed in their hearts.
Application: It is the last verse that really gets me: I seek praise from others a lot. I love to hear compliments. I love to hear how great whatever I am working on is. I crave affirmation. If I fill myself up with the Holy Spirit more, will that need diminish? How can I make that change within myself?
Prayer: Lord, You know I struggle here.
I have a competitive nature and I love to make others think well of me. Please guide me in changing that to do what I do for your glory and to do what I do because I enjoy what I am doing, not for the comments and thoughts I might receive from other men.
Even in blogging, I am so excited to see how you have changed me and how I want to share your Word. And I want my audience to grow. So sometimes I let that drive me.
Lord, Keep me from focusing on growth and instead keep my gaze fixed on you. Please guide me to live as Paul directs in Colossians 3:2 “Set your eyes on things above, not on earthly things.”
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