Covert followers?

“Many people believed 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)

These individuals believed in Jesus, but they wouldn’t admit it because of fear of how others would respond. It’s easy for us to look down on these individuals. How could they?! But we’re pretty similar. How many times have we wanted human approval and praise more than God’s approval?

Let me ask you this question, “Is there anything in your life that dishonors God, yet you do it because of what other people will think of you?” Or maybe there’s something that you know that God is wanting you to do, but you DON’T DO IT because you’re afraid people will look down on you... maybe even think you’re crazy!

May our belief in Jesus be evident to everyone around us through how we obey Him. May we seek God’s approval more than the praise of humans.