Praise of God

                                                                  John 12:43
                                                    For they loved the praise of men
                                                        more than the praise of God.

Even though Jesus had done many signs and miracles, many Chief Priests and Jews refused to believe He was the Son of God. They were determined to see Him crucified for proclaiming what they felt was blasphemy. Those that did believe refused to proclaim Jesus as Christ for fear of the Pharisees.

                             Nevertheless even among the rulers many believed in Him,
                             because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they
                             should be put out of the synagogue for they loved the praise
                             of men more than the praise of God.                  __John 12:42-43

When I read this, my first thought was, "Oh Lord, may this never be true in my life. May I be willing to proclaim my belief and love for you regardless of who I am with." Then I thought about how important it is to us all to be accepted by others. We can justify not sharing our beliefs for fear of becoming an offense to others.

What does our Father tell us we are to do?
                           "Come out from among them, and be separate says the Lord."
                                                                                                        __2 Corinthians 6:17

Jesus walked among the lost, not trying to blend in, nor cower from the Truth, but simply sharing the love of the Father. As we live our lives as a witness for our Lord, we are to do the same.

                             Therefore be imitators of God as dear children.
                             And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and
                             given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice
                             to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.                   __Ephesians 5:1-2

We live for an audience of One. His name is Jesus. May we live our life pleasing to Him. Only then will we bring Him the glory due His Holy name.

                           "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your
                            good works and glorify your Father in heaven."      __Matthew 5:16



Coming Soon

                    "Living in the Vineyard" Devotional 

I am excited to announce the soon to be released book of 242 devotionals I have written. The Devotional will be available as an ebook as well as paperback. More details will follow as I receive a release date. I pray this Devotional will be a blessing to many.