And responding again, Pilate said to them, “Then what shall I do with Him whom you call the King of the Jews?” They shouted back, “Crucify Him!” But Pilate said to them, “Why, what evil has He done?” But they shouted all the more, “Crucify Him!” Intent on satisfying the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas for them, and after having Jesus flogged, he handed Him over to be crucified.

How do you respond when you feel conflicted on a decision? Where do you turn for help or seek wisdom? Many search online or talk to others for advice for those moments in life. Pilate was conflicted on what to do about Jesus. On one hand, he saw very clearly the innocence of Jesus and the jealousy of the chief priests. On the other, he was overwhelmed by the desire of the crowd to punish this man. Standing with Jesus suddenly became very costly for Pilate, putting his identity and position at risk if he stood in favor of the One the crowd was so hostile toward. When pressure mounts to make a difficult decision how do we know the right thing?

Without the guidance of God, we will be no different than Pilate or the roaring crowd. Going to God with our questions and anxiety should always be our first response because only He can give us a way forward every time. Research may help us learn more about what is wrong and asking a friend for help may give us someone else’s perspective, but God is the one who holds all truth and life. When we feel conflicted, we have a safe place to turn with our questions and anxiety, we have the Holy Spirit who will guide us in all wisdom, and we have a God who is graciously willing to be with us when we are overwhelmed by the pressure of others. We don’t have to please others because God is faithful even as people quickly change their minds. As overwhelming as some moments can be, life is much more than the sum of what people say or the things we do for others. As Christians, we live approved by God who has cleansed us and made us whole to live freely for Him.

• When have you felt the pressure to please people? How do you usually respond?
• How have you sought to walk with God when you have been unsure about what to do? How has He helped you?
• Pray and tell God where you are anxious or have felt pressure from other people. Ask Him to give you discernment for the way forward.