According to multiple definitions online, a “YES” MAN is one who agrees with whatever opinion is held by those around him, especially a boss, manager, or supervisor, in order to gain that person’s approval. Although originally used in masculine terms, the phrase applies to men or women who continually tolerate or support the thoughts and ideas of authority figures, especially those whose affirmation is necessary for their advancement in a specific work-related position or social group.
You know that person – someone who “goes along to get along,” fearful that any opposition to even questionable viewpoints of respected authority figures may result in mockery or lack of advancement opportunities. Most of us recognize this defect in others, but seldom admit to it in our own behavior.
We didn’t speak up during that off-color gab session.
We don’t stand up for a colleague during gossip-fests.
We choose not to add our time, resources, or voices to defending the unborn, the downtrodden, the unfairly accused because we’re too busy — or afraid of the consequences.
The life of a Christian is not that of a “YES” man. In fact, Jesus warned that following Him would require denying ourselves (Matthew 16:24) and modeled for His disciples the reality of saying “NO” to the standards and expectations of the social and religious world in which they lived.
What were some of the “NOs” Jesus actively practiced?
“NO” to prioritizing man-made religious rules over the needs of the people around Him (Matthew 12:9-13; John 5:1-18).
“NO” to laws requiring Him to keep His distance from societal outcasts such as lepers, an adulterous woman, and the Samaritan woman by the well (Matthew 8; John 8:1-11; John 4).
“NO” to selfishness as He washed the feet of His disciples, including the feet of His betrayer (John 13:1-11).
“NO” to abandoning the work of salvation (Luke 22:42).
These holy “NO’s” allowed many more heavenly “YES” responses – “YES” to forgiveness, fellowship, and establishing an eternal Kingdom in the hearts of men.
Examine your life and commit to becoming a man or woman of God who imitates the “NO’s” of Christ in order to say “YES” to a life of joyful obedience and peace.
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