Word for the day "Have you ever had to stand up

^{John 1:59  (NIV)} On the eighth day they came to circumcise the child, and they were going to name him after his father Zechariah, ⁶⁰ but his mother spoke up and said, “No! He is to be called John.” ⁶¹ They said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who has that name.”Have you ever had to stand up against public opinion or advice from family members or peers? Elizabeth gave birth to John the Baptist. It was time to name the child. Tradition said the name would be in honor of a family member. The family members were insistent. When Elizabeth didn't agree with them, they appealed to Zechariah who supported Elizabeth.Zechariah was told by the angel Gabriel the name was to be "John." They were being obedient to the Lord's command which went against tradition and public opinion. We live in a day when leaders are often driven more by public opinion than what is right. We are each called to live a life based on obedience-based decisions, not public opinion.Living a life of obedience to the Lord will often go against the tide of public opinion. Jesus lived a life based on a passion of purpose and plan. The Pharisees wanted Him to conform to the rules of religious tradition. The result was He died because He lived to obey an audience of private One, not public opinion.Point to ponder - Are you challenged to live a life of conviction versus pleasing others? Be true to what God has called you to do no matter the cost.Our Leadership team is especially thankful for those of you who provided financial donations and support in the month of March 2017 by partnering with us in efforts to advance the kingdom of God in this 21st century season: Special thanks to Mr. William Wilson, Ms. Annette Straker, Mr. Kenny Washington, Mrs. Barbara Mason, and Ms. Gertrude Scott. Why don't you take the opportunity to write us on our blog and let us know how we are doing in serving you Great people, we'd love to hear from you! Follow me on Twitter @Elder James Baker, as I endeavor to encourage and empower leaders of today and tomorrow! Kingdom Blessings,Pastor James Baker, Jr.Thank you for using the Word Cup devotionals brought to you through Grace and Truth Leadership on (Word press). We are a faith-based, donor-supported ministry. If you have been touched by these daily devotionals, and would like to make a monthly pledge or a special gift of any amount, please use the link below to give as the Lord leads. Thank you so much!http://www.graceandtruthleadership.org/#!donate/vv9e2