Month: November 2018

But Gideon told them “I will not rule over you, nor will my son rule over you. The LORD will rule over you.” Judges 8:23 (Chapters 6-8)

The Israelites were plagued by marauders.  The Midianites came at harvest time, raiding the fields and herds. The men of Israel had taken to hiding in caves and threshing their meager gatherings in hidden pits. During this time of duress, they sought God’s power. God chose Gideon to be Israel’s mighty warrior.

When called, Gideon was so sure God was mistaken, that he asked for strong signs of confirmation. Having his faith settled, God directed Gideon to reduce his amassed army and take only 300 men, so that all would know it was by God’s authority victory was won. With torches hidden in jars and carrying trumpets, Gideon’s forces attacked their enemy in the pitch black of night, creating a chaos in which the enemy self destructed. The land enjoyed peace for the next 40 years (Gideon’s generation.)

The story of Gideon is not one of charismatic leadership, but rather, the divine intervention of God on behalf of those who trust Him. Gideon was the last person Israel would have chosen for their hero, but God did the choosing. The simple secret to prosperity, aka, peace: Boldly trust God.

Love,

Gretchen

“When the princes in Israel take the lead, when the people willingly offer themselves, praise the LORD!”  Judges 5:2 (Chapters 3-5)

In case you wonder why the idolatry of the inhabitants of Canaan were so loathsome to God, here’s a little insight.  The Moabite’s god, Chemosh was worshipped with human sacrifice, The Ammonites practiced the burning of little children to please their god, Moloch. In addition, temple priests and priestesses were prostitutes. Sexual depravity was the free gift from government. God wanted none of this life destroying behavior to threaten His people, but Israel continued to walk past all warnings and wandered toward destruction.

In a male dominated world, two women took initiative and won a great battle for Israel.  Deborah was both prophet and judge. A woman of great authority.  She received divine direction to share with her military leader.  He hesitated to obey until she agreed to enter into battle with him. As combat began, a sudden storm bogged down the opposing forces of Jabin, king of Canaan, allowing Israel victory.  Sisera, Jabin’s military leader was the sole surviver. He fled, escaping to the tent of Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite. Jael, as a woman, would have limited experience beyond her own home, but when good vs. evil was presented, her one skill, pitching a tent, was all she needed. She pretended hospitality, only to murder Sisera with a hammer and tent peg when he fell asleep.

The narrative of Judges is a repeated pattern of obedience bringing prosperity and sin bringing despair. One constant is the authority, power and faithfulness of The One True God. Your faith is well placed when it is placed in Him.

Love,

Gretchen