John 12:43-46

43 … for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.

44 Then Jesus cried out and said, “He who believes in Me, believes not in Me but in Him who sent Me.

45 And he who sees Me sees Him who sent Me.

46 I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness.

“Choose Light!”

In John 12:42, we read that some of the rulers believed in Jesus, but would not speak out because they feared being put out of the synagogue. In verse 43, we read the real reason why they wouldn’t proclaim their belief. “They loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.” They cared more about what other people thought than what God thought. This is a question I need to ask myself quite often. Who am I here to please? The answer is God. I am here to please God. Period. If I do that, then everything else will fall into place. Will everyone like me? Probably not, but that is ok. When I stand before God, I want Him to see that I tried to please Him first. No one here on earth holds my salvation in their hands. But God does! I didn’t always live this way, and sometimes I still slip up and let fear of what other people think creep in. That is when I have to renew my mind with God’s Word, and pray to Him for forgiveness and strength. I have to hit the reset button and ask myself, “Does it really matter what anyone thinks other than God? Worrying about what other people think rather than what God thinks is choosing darkness! Choose light!

In verses 44 and 45, we read that Jesus cried out! Was He crying out in frustration? I would think so. Can you just hear Him pleading with these people? He cried out, paraphrasing, “If you believe in Me, then you are not only believing in Me, but you are also believing in the one who sent Me. When you see me, you are seeing Him who sent Me.” Don’t you know Jesus felt like he was talking to a brick wall? Jesus had already said that God sent Him. So the people knew who He meant when He said, “Him who sent Me”. He was telling them they were rejecting God when they rejected Him, and they were not recognizing the glory of God that resided in Jesus. They were choosing to remain in darkness instead of choosing light!

In verse 46, Jesus reiterated that He had come to be a light for the world, and that whoever believed in Him would not abide in darkness. These people were so blind they didn’t even realize it. This is how the world is today. So many people think that they are enlightened, but they are really in darkness. Satan has tricked them into thinking they can see. How sad. I often think about how blind I have been in the past. How did I come out of that darkness? Jesus… that is how I did it! I saw the light of hope in Jesus, and I began to take steps to get my act together. I chose light! It’s a choice! It’s a process, though. It doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time to make those daily choices that affect change. Along with prayer, the most important choice we make is committing to being in His Word daily. Jesus said if we abide in Him, we will not be in darkness. Being in His Word is how we abide in Jesus. Where else do we find His precious words? How else do we get to know the Father and the Son? One day at a time, when we choose to open His Word, we step into His light. The more we are in it, the more light fills our lives. I thank the Lord that I woke up and realized how blind I was. I’m so glad I chose light before I must stand before Jesus in judgment with no opportunity to make things right. Don’t stay in the dark. Choose light.

God’s Plan of Salvation

Below is the plan God has outlined in His Word for humankind to receive His grace, which leads to salvation and an eternity with God in heaven. This plan is straight from the Bible.

We have to hear His word. (Romans 10:17)

Upon hearing the message of Jesus, we believe it. (Mark 16:16)

Then, we confess Jesus’ name before men. (Matthew 10:32)

Next, we repent of our sins. (Acts 2:38, Acts 3:19)

Finally, we are baptized into Christ for the remission of our sins.  (Acts 2:38, Matthew 28:18-20, Mark 16:16, Romans 6:3-4, Acts 22:16, 1 Corinthians 12:13, Galatians 3:26-27) After baptism, God adds us to His church. (Acts 2:47)

Then, we must remain faithful until death or until Jesus returns, whichever comes first. (Rev. 2:10)

God means for everyone to learn what the Bible teaches about being saved. It only takes an open heart for Jesus and a willingness to put away what we’ve been taught in the past, and truly read what God’s Word says for ourselves… and then accept what it says and obey it. If I can help you in any way, I would love to! Are you walking in the light? Are you in Christ? Are you saved? If you aren’t, or if you’re not sure if you are, I’d love to help you. Are you a member of the Lord’s church, but are struggling spiritually in your walk with Christ? If you are… believe me, I’ve been there many times, and I’d love to help you. If you have any questions, please reach out.

I love God’s Word. It challenges me to be better… to do more in His service. It is interesting and keeps me on the edge of my seat, wondering what will happen next. It gives me confidence and builds me up, and it brings me to my knees when my soul needs convicting! Thank you, Father, for the wonderful gift of Your Word!