36 "While you have the light, believe in the light, so that you may become children of light." After Jesus had said this, he departed and hid from them. 37 Although he had performed so many signs in their presence, they did not believe in him. 42 Nevertheless many, even of the authorities, believed in him. But because of the Pharisees they did not confess it, for fear that they would be put out of the synagogue; 43 for they loved human glory more than the glory that comes from God.
THOUGHTS:
Do we love human glory more than the glory that comes from God? I expect we all struggle with this a little.
Someone says they "like" your Facebook note, status, picture, etc....
You sink a sweet 3-pointer in a game of pick-up basketball and your team gives you a high-five...
You get a bunch of compliments about how you are dressed...
You finish a concert and receive a boisterous round of applause...
You get some raving comments on your blog...
Your name is called for an award and every eye in the room turns to you...
These things give you a boost -- an odd burst of pride -- it makes you feel good! And then it fades.
I'm not saying to avoid compliments or applause. We all occasionally do things that others appreciate, and it's great when people share their appreciation with others! The issue is when we spend our time and energy fishing for compliments, seeking adoration, or hungering for applause.
Love of human glory is about allowing other people to determine our value and worth in the world. When we focus on our own gratification, then we lose sight of the glory of God.
The point: Have you ever been embarrassed to share your faith? Do you worry that if people know what you believe, then they'll lose respect for you? Have you let human opinions control you ... even when you think God may be calling you down a different path? (I know I have!)
Take some time today to think about whether you love human glory more than the glory that comes from God ...
PRAYER:
God, thank you for loving us as we are. We are sorry for the times that we allow ourselves to be controlled by our hunger of glory from others. We humbly offer ourselves to your service. For the sake of your son Jesus the Christ. AMEN.
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