Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in him [Jesus]. 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 12:42-43
Oh Lord, I am stopped by Your Word today which makes note of religious leaders not following You wholeheartedly because of their desire for man’s affirmation. Lord, I know this is a real part of man’s heart. I know I am bent the way of waywardness because of my flesh. Lord, revive my heart and renew my mind. Help me to not be caught up in the praises of man or the rejection of man.
My heart aches as I process the gravity of this situation with the Pharisees. They heard the truth, but it didn’t root in good soil. Oh Lord, make my heart good soil for Your truth. May the Gospel be established in my life over every other thing – even the opinions of man. Lord, let me esteem Your praise as the highest praise. Let there be no competition for Kingship in my heart. You are King and there is no other! Oh Lord, do a fresh work today.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
