Scripture:
Matthew 14:6–10
6 But when Herod’s birthday came, the daughter of Herodias danced before the company, and she pleased Herod 7 so much that he promised on oath to grant her whatever she might ask. 8 Prompted by her mother, she said, “Give me the head of John the Baptist here on a platter.” 9 The king was grieved, yet out of regard for his oaths and for the guests, he commanded it to be given; 10 he sent and had John beheaded in the prison. (NRSVUE)
Observation:
Herod was not happy with John the Baptist. John had spoken honestly, condemning Herod for taking his brother’s wife. This had angered and embarrassed Herod, so he had John imprisoned.
Now comes a birthday party. We can surmise that they are having a good time, and maybe even having a little too much to drink. The daughter of Herodias comes out to dance, and Herod is very pleased. In a moment of excitement, he tells her that he will “grant her whatever she might ask.” Of course, her mother has been angry with John, so she tells her daughter to ask for his head.
This was most certainly not what Herod had in mind. Now he was grieved. He had made an emotional decision in the heat of the moment. He felt that he couldn’t go back on what he had promised in front of all these people, even if it resulted in the death of someone who didn’t deserve to die. He could have refused, but his concern for his reputation and his guests became more important than doing what was right.
His emotional decision led to more bad decisions. The result was that John was beheaded.
Application:
There are moments in life when we get emotional. Sometimes it’s the excitement of a moment, and sometimes it’s a time of deep frustration. Emotions are running high, and then we are tempted to make a decision.
This is how people sometimes make rash decisions about their marriages.
This is how people quit their jobs in frustration.
This is how people say things that they later regret.
This is how people post things on social media.
Sometimes we simply find straightforward lessons in the Word of God.
I began doing this SOAP journaling many years ago because I read Wayne Cordeiro’s book, The Divine Mentor. In that book, he tells the story of a young pastor on staff at his church. One day, tired and frustrated, this young person comes into the office and tells his pastor, “I quit.” Wayne asks him how much time he’s spent with Jesus that morning. He says he hasn’t spent any time with the Lord—he’s too busy. And just maybe, he’s emotional. Wayne won’t accept his resignation and sends him home to spend an hour a day with Jesus every day for a month before coming back into the office. His life is changed.
Wait to make decisions until emotions have settled. Make them when you are seeking the face of God on a regular basis. And pray, “Lead us not into temptation.” That includes the temptation to make a rash decision that we will later regret!
Prayer:
Lord, help me to keep my eyes on You and to take time when it comes to decision-making. I want to know You and Your divine wisdom. Amen.
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