If you’re like me, you might read these verses in Mark and feel relieved that this doesn’t apply to you. After all, I don’t know about you, but I don’t make it a habit of walking around in flowing robes. However, when I realize that Jesus is warning against always trying to make a good impression, I feel very differently about it. How often do I go throughout my day being concerned with what others think of me, trying to win their approval, or being on high alert of how I’m measuring up? Thankfully, the Holy Spirit has helped me identify these red flags that give me a clue into what’s going internally. In moments where I’m focused on how I’m performing, comparing, or achieving, all it takes is to stop and ask God to intervene and help me take those thoughts captive. When I re-prioritize being right before God in my personal relationship with Him first, it helps me stay away from trying to be made right before others. It’s in the times when we’re alone with God, away from others watching what we do, that we’re able to truly learn how to abide in Him fully.
“As he taught, Jesus said, “Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will be punished most severely.”
Mark 12:38-40
“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”
Galatians 1:10