John 7

This particular chapter really hits home to a lot of people, and really describes what goes on even to this day. Jesus was in Judea teaching at a temple even though the Jewish leaders were plotting his death. The leaders were at the festival trying to find him and were asking anyone if they had seen him. Privately people were discussing Jesus and saying great things about Him, but when it came to talk about Him publicly, everyone was too afraid to speak up on His behalf. Which brings me to the key verse in this chapter.

Key Verse: But no one had the courage to speak favorably about Him in public, for they were afraid of getting in trouble with the Jewish leaders.

This happens all too frequently even with Christians today. When Christians are in church with other Christians, it’s really easy to talk about God and speak openly and freely. It’s when they are out in public, they pretty much clam up, mostly out of fear, or they are uncomfortable talking about their faith in public. I know, it happens to me as well. I sometimes don’t have the courage to speak up and share Christ with the people around me. I guess that’s what it all boils down to. Fear. Fear of what people’s reactions are going to be, fear of how they will react, fear of what they will think. We all need to put our fears aside and shout to everyone about Christ.

My Prayer: Lord, I know people struggle with this everyday, not just me. I just pray that you give us the strength and the courage to overcome this fear and uncertainty and just go out and spread your word, because there are people out there who are seeking. Amen.