READING: Judges 8-9
Sometimes we get it right one minute, but then completely mess it up the next.
That’s what Gideon did. After he led the people of God through numerous victorious battles, the people wanted to make him their king. That’s when he got it right, for he said to them, “I will not rule over you, and my son will not rule over you; the LORD will rule over you” (Judges 8:23). Yes, God alone was their warrior. Yes, He alone had given them victory. Indeed, He would be the One to rule over them. For Gideon to be the king would be to usurp God’s throne.
But, then Gideon got it wrong. Terribly wrong. Seemingly captured by the thoughts of being the king, he requested war spoils that symbolized royalty, and he fashioned from those spoils an ephod (a ceremonial garment for the priest) that would become an idol to the Hebrews. It appears that though Gideon said he would not be the king, he was already acting like he was in charge. Further, his son from an immoral relationship was named Abimelech, which means “My father is king” — suggesting again Gideon’s inner thoughts.
He got it right, but then completely messed it up. Perhaps he meant those words the first time, but the lure of acclaim quickly misled him. Or, it’s possible that his words about the Lord’s ruling over the people were simply that — the right words, but spoken from the wrong heart. Those were the words he was supposed to say, so he did. Either way, there’s a problem.
How many times do we say the right words but with the wrong heart? And, how fickle are we when we think rightly one moment but are then led astray the next? Here’s the bottom line from today’s reading: we need God’s help every single moment of every day. Trusting our own words and heart can lead to trouble.
ACTION STEPS: Consider these steps:
- Be aware of times today when you say the right words, but you know your heart isn’t pure.
- Today — a day when most of us will gather with believers — make sure your heart and your words agree. Be a person of complete integrity.
- Seek God throughout the day, asking Him to keep you from ego that could lead to your fall.
PRAYER: “Father, I could easily do what Gideon did. In fact, I follow the same pattern sometimes. In the power and presence of Your Spirit, please protect me from my own tendencies.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Judges 10-12