Devotion for Monday, November 4, 2024

“For when Herod had John arrested, he bound him and put him in prison because of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip. For John had been saying to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” Although Herod wanted to put him to death, he feared the crowd, because they regarded John as a prophet” (Matthew 14:3-4).

Hatred and vengeance are often driving motivators. The wicked, caught in their wickedness, want to eliminate both the accuser and the accusation. The accusation is from the law and God, who knows all things, and has established what is right for all times and places. Herod wanted to be rid of John, but that would not rid him of the truth that he was a sinner. Ultimately, Jesus was killed in attempt to be rid of Him. But His death was God’s plan all along.

Lord, I am often confused by the constant defensiveness of people in this age. Help me to be quick to confess, slow to self-defend, and always willing to repent. I too fall into the trap of sin. The only way out is by Your grace and mercy. Help me to receive Your grace, make amends for my actions, and move into a right relationship with You. Guide me in Your goodness so that I walk the path of one who follows You always.

Holy Spirit, lead me in my inner life. You know where I play the games like Herod of wanting to be rid of the accusation the law makes. Guide me to repent, receive Your grace, make amends, and move on by following Your lead. Help me to be gracious with others as You have been gracious with me. Guide me to live the life to which You have called me in order that I may become more like Christ each day that You give me in this life. Amen.