Scripture:

Mark 11:27-33
27 They came again to Jerusalem. And as He was walking in the temple, the chief priests and the scribes and the elders came to Him,
28 and began saying to Him, "By what authority are You doing these things, or who gave You this authority to do these things?"
29 And Jesus said to them, "I will ask you one question, and you answer Me, and then I will tell you by what authority I do these things. 
30 "Was the baptism of John from heaven, or from men? Answer Me." 
31 They began reasoning among themselves, saying, "If we say, 'From heaven,' He will say, 'Then why did you not believe him?'
32 "But shall we say, 'From men'?" — they were afraid of the people, for everyone considered John to have been a real prophet.
33 Answering Jesus, they said, "We do not know." And Jesus said to them, "Nor will I tell you by what authority I do these things."
NASU


Thoughts:

The Jewish leaders are more concerned about their acceptance with the people than being honest (verses 31-32).  This leads them to act ignorantly, ironically making them look foolish before the people whose good opinion they care for so much (verse 33a).

This illustrates a common temptation.  For various reasons we can find ourselves overly concerned about others' opinions of us.  Maybe our reputation at work or in social circles.  Maybe what a spiritual leader thinks of us.  Whatever the case, worrying about what others think of us, is no way to live!  Instead, we need to focus on living in and for the truth.  We need to leave our reputation and protection in God's hands.


Prayer:

Lord, may I be truthful at all times.  Set me free from the opinions of others!  Let me instead really trust in You.

Amen