A few days ago while doing my morning devotions, I read Mark 6:14-29. These verses tell the story of King Herod having John the Baptist beheaded. Although I am familiar with the story, this time something different really stood out to me. 

Just to review, Kind Herod was married to Herodias. While Herod knew John to be a righteous and holy man, Herodias held a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. One evening, Herod had a dinner party for his high officials and military commanders. At this event, the daughter of Herodias danced for everyone. Herod was so pleased with her performance, he agreed to grant her any wish she desired, even up to half of his kingdom. Herodias told her daughter to request John’s head on a platter. Mark 6:26 says, “the king was greatly distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he did not refuse her.” Those few words grabbed my attention like never before! King Herod feared and protected John but because of his dinner guests, he allowed this man to be murdered. It doesn’t say what his guests thought of John so Herod’s decision was based on the fear of what others thought of him. He felt his reputation was at stake.

Sadly, I am guilty of this same behavior. I have always worried about what people thought of me; concerned about making a good first impression. Even after people get to know me and a friendship develops, I have an underlying fear of causing disappointment. Is my thought process any different from Herod’s? What about the times I have not spoken up in defense of someone or something I believe in? What about when I have not participated in a conversation because I wanted to maintain neutrality? Have I made a serious mistake by my selfish action? The concern of my reputation has not caused the death of anyone but I’m sure it has wounded some. Most especially our Lord.

I still want to be liked and respected. I think most everyone does. But it is God’s approval of me that should matter most. He is the one I want to impress. I need to strive to be who He wants me to be and not worry about the opinions of “my dinner guests.”

“Show proper respect to everyone…” 1 Peter 2:17 (NIV)

“Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.”  Galations 1:10 (NIV)

“A kindhearted woman gains respect…”  Proverbs 11:16 (NIV)

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