Followers of Jesus who keep their distance often face the temptation to deny Him. This denial may not be overt but shows up subtly in everyday choices and priorities. We deny Jesus when we place our trust in ourselves, influencers, businesses, science, or other people more than in Him.
In today’s world, it is easy to be swayed by the voices of popular influencers, the allure of successful businesses, or the apparent certainty offered by science. While these aspects have their place, they should not overshadow our faith in Jesus. Trusting in self or external entities can lead to a gradual erosion of our spiritual commitment.
This phenomenon is not new. Even Peter, one of Jesus’ closest disciples, denied Him three times when he followed Him from afar during His arrest. This act of denial stemmed from fear and the instinct to rely on human wisdom rather than divine guidance. Similarly, modern believers may find themselves distancing from Jesus when challenges arise, opting for seemingly tangible solutions instead of leaning on their faith.
To combat this, it is essential to draw nearer to Jesus, cultivating a personal and intimate relationship with Him. Regular prayer, meditation on Scripture, and active participation in a faith community can strengthen our resolve and remind us of His unwavering presence. By prioritising our relationship with Jesus above all else, we reaffirm our trust in Him and resist the subtle temptations to deny His place in our lives.
In essence, maintaining a close walk with Jesus helps guard against the pitfalls of relying on transient and worldly assurances, keeping our faith steadfast and true.