Our desire to be popular, even as adults, is normal. This desire emerges from our longing to be in community and feel like we belong. Rather than seeking to be popular, Jesus sought to be unpopular. Popularity and acclaim in the eyes of others are fleeting. If we put all our faith in them, we will be disappointed. Instead, God calls us to put our faith in His love and grace.

Put It into Practice:  Consider these questions: Whose approval do you seek more: God’s or people’s? Whom do you fear more, God or man? Who are you trying to please more: God or others? What does an answer other than God prevent you from doing? Why might your focus be on what others think of you rather than God? 

 

Day 1       Matthew 21:1-11 

Reflect: Why do you think Jesus chose to enter the city in this manner?  At this point, what were the reasons for His popularity? Why is Jesus “popular” now? Why is He “unpopular?”

Apply:  During your school years, who were considered the popular kids? Were you one of them? What emotions are stirred in you as you think of it? What is behind the desire for popularity? 

Pray:    God, grant me the strength to prioritize Your purpose over the pursuit of popularity or the expectations of others, knowing that my ultimate validation comes from You alone.

 

Day 2     Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 

Reflect: Why is it so important to give, pray, and fast in secret? We are all probably hypocrites in some way (even small ways). How can we address this? How can you tell where your treasure is? 

Apply:   How often do you think you should have a reward for your actions? How easy is it for you to slip into the habit of doing things to impress others instead of doing them for God? 

Pray:    Father, help me to practice my faith with sincerity and purity of heart, avoiding the temptation to seek praise or to be seen by others. May my heart be fully devoted to Your will above all else. 

 

Day 3     Luke 9:21-26 

Reflect: In today’s world, what are some potential costs or sacrifices involved in following Jesus? In pondering verse 25, what is God saying to you? What does it mean to be ashamed of Jesus?  

Apply: Why is it not popular to follow Jesus today? How can you overcome the fear of being judged or ridiculed for your faith? What are you hanging on to that Jesus wants you to let go?

Pray:    Jesus, give me the courage to stand firm in faith, knowing that true life lies in following You. Don’t let me be so focused on worldly things that I lose sight of the eternal reward of being Your disciple.

 

Day 4     Galatians 1:6-10

Reflect: Why do you think different gospel messages were being presented? Why was the message of God’s gift of grace through Jesus not popular? How do you relate to verse 10?   

Apply:   How do you see people change the message of the Gospel today, trying to make it more “popular”? When have you had to proclaim or defend Jesus’ Words and risk being unpopular?

Pray:     Father God, I want to communicate Your love and grace with gentleness and respect. Help me discern between being spiritually winsome and compromising my allegiance to Jesus Christ.

 

Day 5      James 4:1-10 

Reflect: How is the Holy Spirit speaking to you through this text? Describe the ways we submit to God (verses 7-8). How is humility the antidote to popularity? Can you be and popular?

Apply:   How have you fallen into the trap that James mentions is verse 4? How does the theme of worldly desires versus godly desires manifest in your life? What do you want to be known for?

Pray:     God, I acknowledge my need to draw closer to You. Forgive me for the times I have allowed distractions and worldly desires to keep me from fully submitting to Your will. Help me to fully commit to You and to prioritize Your will above all else.