uʍop-ǝpᴉsd∩ Fear

Hear is a link to last week’s devotional series, Upside down.

“They made his grave with the wicked, and with a rich man in his death…”
Isaiah 53:9

I have a question for you to consider in regard to spiritual courage.

If you live in the free world, how much courage could it possibly take to just believe in Jesus?

You know. Silently.

I guess the next question would be, can you believe silently? Or should you?

Everyone therefore who confesses me before men, I will also confess him before my Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies me before men, I will also deny him before my Father who is in heaven.

Matthew 10:32-33 (WEB)

So, while you think about those things, let’s take a look at one definite believer and one seeker in today’s devotion from the John 19.

Both were almost certainly afraid. Both had a lot to lose, including their positions, wealth, and status in the community, not to mention their lives.

Whether you are a believer or not you have probably heard of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus.

We know from scripture that Joseph (John 19:37) was a follower of Jesus’. He was devoted believer, and he had found grace.

Nicodemus was a seeker. We don’t know his outcome. We certainly hope that he gave his heart to Jesus.

If deeds were any proof, his certainly eventually passed muster. But no one finds redemption through their own goodness. I hope that he discovered his answers in grace. (John 3:16)

Joseph’s courage began to be revealed the closer Christ came to the cross. Maybe he had that courage from the moment he believed.

I think sometimes our silence is useful where we are, at least for a moment. Just long enough to wait on God’s timing to speak up about our faith.

In Joseph’s case this was right. You know this if you have read the story.

Take a look at this.

Behold, there was a man named Joseph, who was a member of the council, a good and righteous man (he had not consented to their counsel and deed), from Arimathea, a city of the Jews, who was also waiting for God’s Kingdom.

Luke 23:50-51 (WEB)

Now don’t forget about the key verse at the opening of today’s devotion.

That verse is a prophecy from Isaiah about our friend, Joseph. Joseph didn’t know that. But God did.

So, it follows that the courage that developed in Joseph’s heart came from God.

“Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid or scared of them, for Yahweh your God himself is who goes with you. He will not fail you nor forsake you.”

Deuteronomy 31:6 (WEB)

The courage that caused Nicodemus to seek Him came from God.

People never just start looking for God. Our sin nature pulls us to reject Him. It is God’s kindness and the gentle tug of the Holy Spirit that draws people toward grace. (Romans 2:4)

And it is that same Spirit that gives true devoted believers the courage and conviction to speak boldly about their faith.

“… preach God’s Kingdom and teach the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness, without hindrance.”

Acts 28:30 & 31 (WEB-Paraphrased)

But notice, God does not force belief, courage or devotion. Love isn’t love if it is coerced.

So how do we join Joseph in deep devotion for our Lord?

 “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me,

for I am gentle and humble in heart;

and you will find rest for your souls.”

Matthew 11:29 (WEB)

Take a moment to read about the monetary sacrifice of Joseph, who offered a costly unused tomb, and Nicodemus provided the burial spices and clothes. Witness their courage as they approached Pilate to request the Savior’s body at great personal risk, demonstrating tender love and reverence in preparing Jesus’ body for burial.

But never forget. It was God’s grace that provided salvation. Bible heroes and faithful heroes of today can only ever stand on the courage and the sacrifice of Jesus.

Amazing grace
How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I’m found
Was blind, but now I see¹

John only uses the word believe once in this passage, bringing our total to 96 in these nineteen chapters of the Gospel. You can read it below in verse thirty-five.

He who has seen has testified, and his testimony is true. He knows that he tells the truth, that you may believe.

John 19:35 (WEB)

Go and share the Gospel in your world!

How beautiful are the feet of those

who share the Good News!

Isaiah 52:7 (Paraphrased)

World English Bible (WEB)

by Public Domain. The name “World English Bible” is trademarked.

1. Amazing Grace
   John Newton
   Ca. 1779
   Public Domain ↩︎