CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE DAILY DEVOTIONAL BIBLE STUDY ON YOUTUBE
Mark 6:21-29
In Mark 6:21-29 is the detailed death of John the Baptist as was requested by Herodias’ daughter as directed by her mother. We have learned that Herodias was at odds with John the Baptist because he spoke openly about his disapproval of her marriage to Herod (Mark 6:17-19). The Bible teaches us in Mark 6:26-27 that King Herod was “exceedingly sorry” for having John the Baptist beheaded, but he had made a promise to Herodias’ daughter to give her whatever she wanted, up to half of his kingdom (Mark 6:23). This is why King Herod believed that Jesus was the reincarnated John the Baptist.
This is an example of the powers of public pressures to influence our decisions.
King Herod, I believe, would never have had John the Baptist killed as we have learned that he enjoyed hearing the wisdom and teachings of him (Mark 6:20). But in the excitement of the moment, King Herod made a promise that he should not have made. He was exhibiting his power and authority as a king to impress his guests (Mark 6:21, 26). It was not, however, simply King Herod’s own self-righteous seeking that caused the death of John the Baptist; it was also the evils that lurk in the hearts of those with which Satan has planted the seeds of hate and discontent. We must guard our hearts against such evils and beware of the wiles of the devil by putting our faith in Jesus. The Bible teaches us in 1 Peter 5:6-9 (NKJV), “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.” Put your faith in Jesus today and He will save you from the wiles of the devil and give you a new life of forgiveness from sin leading to life eternal (John 3:16).
Dear LORD,
Please help us to see that our words and our promises hold consequences that may be out of our control when used improperly. Please help us to adapt and implement in our lives the words in obedience to Jesus as He commands in John 13:34-35, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” In Jesus name I pray, amen.