"Nevertheless even among the rulers many believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue; 43for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God." John 12:42-43 NKJV
William MacDonald says, 'It was obvious that these men were more interested in the praise of their fellow men than they were in the praise of God. They thought more of man's approval than of God's.' Can people be genuine believers acting in such a way? Check out John 5:44 for Jesus' answer. 'How can you believe, who receive honour from one another, and do not seek the honour that comes from the only God.'
People throughout the history of the church have sought the attention of man instead of God. It is no different today. Let me explain, if you preach a sermon, lead the worship or run a bible study, it is so easy to want to hear people praise your efforts - 'I really enjoyed your word today' or perhaps, 'I like it when you lead the worship.' Now, let's be honest, it is nice to be encouraged this way, we need it and are grateful when we receive this. However, the difference is, when we go looking for the praise, dropping hints to people about the sermon or worship time. This is wrong because we most certainly are attempting to steal the glory from Jesus. The best thing to do is to just be grateful that you were chosen to deliver this ministry. Jesus thought you were worthy and that is all that matters.
People pleasers do a particular thing for someone and then hang around them seeking their thanks and praise. They go over the top when asked to do a particular task, in fact, they try to go further and do much more. There are genuine people that do this of course, but, others like to feel special with a leader figure. How are you on this?
Look at Jesus' example:
'Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, 6who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, 7but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. 8And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. 9Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.' Philippians 2:5-11.
Jesus remained humble and didn't shove himself forward wanting to take the lead. The devil does that. Just be content that Jesus loves you; if you asked Him into your life, He has saved you, but if you haven't you can say the prayer below if you choose to. Just remember, that you are an elite member of an elite army - Team Jesus!
If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now
Lord Jesus, I have sinned. I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today. In Jesus' Name. Amen
dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com Copyright 2025 Grahame Howard.
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