John 19:38 After these things Joseph of Arimathea, being a disciple of Jesus, but a secret one for fear of the Jews... Mark 15:43 Joseph gathered courage and went to Pilate for the body of Jesus.
Observation
Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent member of the council, was a secret follower of Jesus because he was fearful of the Jewish leaders. Would they try to kill him? What would they say about him if they knew? What would they do to him? His family? Would he lose his reputation? Although very much afraid, Joseph 'gathered courage' and went to Pilate and boldly asked him for the body of Jesus that he might give him a decent burial.
Application
I am a Christ follower - a disciple of Jesus Christ. I will shout it from the mountaintops, and sing of His praise quite freely now. But there were times early on in my walk with Jesus that I was once like Joseph; I was a secret disciple too. I was afraid of what others would think of me - those who knew the 'old' me. Why was I afraid to speak up and tell my family, my friends, that 'I'm saved! I'm forgiven! I've met Jesus! I've been baptized with the Holy Spirit of God and He has empowered me to go and tell of all the great things He has done for me!' But, I was shy, timid, so afraid and hesitant. Yes, I was a secret disciple too, but no longer.
So, how do I gather courage? How do I overcome the horrendous obstacle of fear?
- I pray. I ask for courage. I've learned that God will give me what I need when I need it. I remember it's ok to be afraid, and I still get a bit scared when I know I'm going to share with someone about Jesus or pray for them. It's ok to fail too, but I've made a decision to be a life long learner and listener of Jesus and I will obey Him.
- I recall scripture verses that have helped me when my knees are knocking. The fear of man is a snare. God has not given to you a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and a sound mind. Fear not, for I am with you. When I am weak then He is strong. Choose you this day who you will serve. Keep pressing on. Whatever He says, do it.
That's what I do when I am afraid. Bottom line, I trust in Him.
Prayer
O God, You are my God and I will ever praise You! You teach me and show me Your ways and help me to find the words that I could not express otherwise. You give boldness to this unlearned uneducated vessel and I give You thanks. I'm amazed by Your great love and embrace the adventures You have prepared for me to walk in each day. May I bring glory to Your awesome Name. Show Yourself strong and save many. In Jesus Name, A-men.
