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April 14
Stand Up for Jesus
Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus.
John 19:38, niv
Because Jesus had just been executed as a criminal and an enemy of Rome, Joseph’s request was exceedingly bold. As a prominent member of the religious community, he ran the risk of provoking not only Pilate but also the other Jewish leaders who then could have excommunicated him from the Sanhedrin and the temple.
Joseph’s action was especially astounding since previously he had been so timid and fearful of the opinions of others that he had kept his belief in Jesus as the Messiah a secret. Now, however, he came out of the closet and “with Pilate’s permission, he came and took the body.” Even more astonishing, “he was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night” (John 19:38–39, niv).
The Father’s heart must have been deeply moved and heaven’s host must have applauded with joy to see these two fearful, prideful Jewish men throw caution to the wind. They had been silent when they should have spoken. They had denied their faith when they should have asserted it. But no more! Now they were standing up for Jesus!
Just Give me Jesus, (Nashville: W Publishing Group, 2000).
©2012 Anne Graham Lotz. All rights reserved.
What are the secrets to a life of impact? Daniel achieved greatness in the eyes of his contemporaries, in the eyes of history, and most importantly, in the eyes of God. His faith did not waver as he faced his critics, as he served new kings in power, or even as he confronted hungry lions. How can we achieve that kind of faith today? Twenty intentional, key choices made all the difference. Daniel’s choices can be ours, such as:
• The choice to listen
• The choice to forgive
• The choice to pray
Cultivate a life-changing faith when you learn to implement The Daniel Key into your everyday life. Request your copy!
For more from Anne Graham Lotz please visit AnneGrahamLotz.org.
Originally published Sunday, 14 April 2024.
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