Tyrannical King or Humble King?

Having a sense of control in our lives is important for our sanity. Feeling “out of control” stresses our spirit.

Herod went beyond the normal need for control, and the results were disastrous. You see this when the Magi told King Herod that they had come to worship the Messiah and Herod became “greatly disturbed” (Matthew 2:3). He summoned his own wise men to ask where the Messiah would be born, and they told him in Bethlehem.

You might think Herod would have rejoiced! “Hey, the Savior has arrived on my watch! Think of the photo ops!” But instead Herod met the Magi secretly, and then sent them on as spies. “As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him” (Matt. 2:8). What a liar.

Herod’s need for control was realized horrifically when the Magi stood him up. With blood boiling, he schemed against innocent children from Bethlehem, and mothers could not be comforted.

Despite Herod’s actions, God still worked His way. Jesus grew up to become a man who would teach, heal, die and become the sacrifice for our sins. God saved Jesus (Matthew 2:13-14) so Jesus could save us.

What kind of person do you want to be — someone who fights tooth and nail to get your way, or a person who trusts in God and his plan? Will we act like controlling tyrants or the humble King?

Lord God, may I know the reign of your sovereign way in my life. May I give up my need for control, to have things always go my way. Forgive me for fighting against your will, and thank you for making good of my life despite my failings. Amen.

Throughout this Day: Consider what it means to surrender every part of your life to the Lord. Ask the Holy Spirit to humble you and show you how to be more like Jesus.