“A strategic day came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his lords and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee; and when the daughter of Herodias herself came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his dinner guests; and the king said to the girl, “Ask me for whatever you want and I will give it to you” (Mark 6:21-22).
Never make a bargain with the devil. In our sinfulness, we may be tempted to be charitable but if it is done with pride, it may well become a devil’s bargain. Herod placed himself in the position of having to be generous because of all the guests. Showing off is never a good idea. Learn from folly, yours and others, and seek to do what is best in every situation. Be guided by the Holy Spirit and not by your pride, for “pride goes before destruction.”
Lord, there are times when I do things I think are good, and they are not. There are times when pride rules me. Be the One who guides me in how I live my life and direct the things I do. Where there is pride, slay it. Where there is false generosity, humble me. Help me to see myself as I am and not fall prey to the plotting and scheming that happens in this world. Be the One who guides my heart.
Lord Jesus, how many times have You seen this kind of thing play out? Regardless of the times I do anything like this, help me to follow Your example and seek at all times and in all ways to please the Father. Be the One who is leading my life. Guard my mouth and mind so that I may learn humility and hear clearly when Your Holy Spirit speaks. Guide me, dear Savior, into the way of righteousness. Amen.
