Controlled by the Flesh

The daughter of Herodias “danced” before Herod and his guests. The Greek word here is related to the English word “orchestra,” and it suggests a leaping action.

Through her actions, she “pleased” Herod and his guests. The Greek word indicates actions that excited his emotions. Herod was so impacted that he made a promise that he would give her anything she wanted. Prompted by Herodias, the girl asked for and received the head of John the Baptist.

Herod’s response to this one dance seems unrealistic. But here we see how easily we can be influenced by circumstances. It’s easy to be swayed by peer pressure and a desire to impress others. The emotions of the moment can lead us to do foolish things. Herod lost perspective and even self-control, and he later regretted his actions.

Herod was demonstrating what happens when we are controlled by our flesh. As Paul described, these “deeds of the flesh” include immorality, impurity, sensuality, drunkenness, and carousing. This was the very behavior demonstrated by Herod and his guests.

Believers can find themselves with the same influences. Unless we are filled and controlled by the Spirit, we could find ourselves behaving in similar ways. The fruit of the Spirit includes self-control, and He gives us discernment and an ability to put things in perspective. Filled with the Holy Spirit, we won’t act in a rash way, like Herod, or be controlled by the “passions and desires” of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-24).

Let Herod’s tragic behavior serve as a warning. It’s a reminder of the danger of being controlled by the flesh. Today, make sure you are filled and controlled by the Spirit!