Mark 6:14-29
Be Still: Lord, I thank you that in your presence nothing is hidden and that I can bring my whole self to you. Amen
Read: Mark 6:14-29
‘Herod feared John and protected him, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man’ (v 20)
Encounter: Herod had a fear-of-others issue (like a lot of us!). He arrested John because he wanted Herodias' approval; he feared John's spiritual and moral judgment, and the pressure of being observed by dinner guests pushed him to have John beheaded. John is the opposite; he speaks up for what is right despite the consequences. Where many would have been afraid of Herod, John feared the Lord more and lived a life of righteousness and holiness.
In our lives, it can be difficult to balance truth and approval. What happens when pleasing people costs you obedience to the Lord? What happens when obedience to the Lord costs you where you stand with people?
When I was in a previous job, a muslim colleague was experiencing discrimination by senior management. I'd love to say I jumped at the first opportunity to advocate for her, but it took time before I did. If I’m honest, it felt costly. The management liked me, and I thought I was voluntarily stepping into a firing line. When we live in fear of people’s opinions, we become controlled by shifting standards and trapped by the need to be liked, accepted, or understood. That fear can sometimes cause us to compromise, to stay silent when we should speak up, or to shrink back in moments where we’re called to stand.
The fear of the Lord is not about being scared of him; it’s living a life that chooses reverence for him over our reputation. It is easier said than done! However, what we gain by living lives completely devoted to the Lord, is infinitely more than anything we lose.
Apply:
Are there any areas in your life where you are more concerned with people’s approval than the Lord’s?
Is there a decision you’ve been avoiding because you fear people’s response more than trusting the Lord for the outcome?
Devote: Lord, I thank you that you are enough for me. Increase my desire to please you above anything or anyone else.