John 12:42-43, "Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but 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."  

It is certain that in the landscape of Judaism, during the life of Jesus on this earth, there were Jews who believed yet remained quiet about that fact.  I believe Nicodemus would be such an example, one who was an undercover believer.  He is the one who came to Jesus by night and heard the message from Jesus about the necessity of being born again (See John 7:50-51 and John 19:39).  Joseph of Arimathaea, was a disciple of Jesus, who feared the Jews (John 19:38).   

In these instances, two hindrances to our walk are obvious:

• Fear hinders our walk.  What is it that brings fear into your life that hinders your walk with the Lord?  I know there are things that we all fear which negatively impacts our walk.

• Loving man's praise and acceptance hinders our walk, this is specifically identified in John 12:43.  We have to fight the urge to be praised by people.  Praise is gratifying and strokes our ego and our pride.  However, pleasing God must take priority in our lives.  Have you decided to choose pleasing God over man?  

Be honest enough to acknowledge and confess those things which hinder your walk with the Lord.  Bring them to Him in prayer and ask the Lord to give you victory over those things which hinder.  A good friend, to bring accountability into your life, is another source to help in this battle to overcome things that hinder your walk.  

May we overcome those self-imposed obstacles that hinder our walk with Jesus.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1. If you are quiet about Jesus, why is that so? What obstacle(s) do you need to overcome?

2. Are you excited when you receive the praise of others? What causes your excitement?

3. What keeps you from fully living for Jesus? What can you do to start living as you should?

4. Have you ever been threatened because of your Christian walk? Explain.