Unsure how much time has passed when we read “after this,” but suffice it to say that Gideon remains true to his word. You’ll recall in our last reading that Gideon and his army were turned away by two towns until they could bring the two Midianite kings into custody.
I don’t think of Gideon as a gloating type, but he returned with the two kings in hand and was ready to make a statement. He had warned the leaders of these two towns what would happen to them for not helping him in their time of need. Gideon is going to make good on these promises. This will set a good example for his men.
Have you ever had someone give you their word on something and then never follow through? I have, and it doesn’t feel good. Especially when I’ve had to face that person again. It’s awkward. Do you act as if nothing happened and they didn’t let you down? Or do you call them out and let them know you’ve been hurt? I tend to sway towards the “suck it up, don’t rock the boat” type of response.
There are a lot of things in this world that are out of our control. Keeping our word should be one of those things we guard and make sure it happens. If we can’t keep our promise, we shouldn’t pretend that nothing happened. That’s just plain rude, don’t you think?
In our story today, Gideon’s words of doom do come true for the towns. Even though he may have been angry and exhausted when the words came out, he didn’t use that as an excuse for avoiding the issue. Did you notice what he did first? He did a little research. He wanted to be in control of the situation when he returned to Succoth and took his stand.
I am a little curious about the ending. Why do you think Gideon asked his son to kill the kings? Did he think Jether needed something to brag about? The fact that his young son was with him that day leads me to believe that he had been part of the whole battle. I’ll have to think on this a bit more but welcome comments!
My overall takeaway from the reading is to be full of integrity and keep my word. It’s what we strive to do in our business. Too many entrepreneurs these days do not seem to have the same “filter” of goodness. We do business God’s way and want people to be able to trust our word. What was your takeaway today?
Let’s pray …
Lord, as your representative, I want to shine my light in a way that attracts people to you. Even when it’s hard to do, help me always follow through on a promise made. I know God that your promises are true and reliable. Thank you for showing me how to help others be accountable, too. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Hi Dana,
I just followed you at WA and thought I would check out your website real quick. I like it.
It definitely doesn’t feel good when someone doesn’t keep their word, and I agree with you that it’s one thing we should protect and do what we say we will do.
When I think of Gideon, I always think of the fleece he put out, but this story is not one talked about much.
Psalm 46:10 is my husband’s favorite Bible verse.
Lynn
I’ve always been intrigued by the fleece part of Gideon’s story. As I reflected this time through, I only touched briefly on his desire for “proof.” I love how God was so willing to oblige his requests! I hope you stop by the site again and again!