22The Israelites said to Gideon, “Rule over us—you, your son and your grandson—because you have saved us from the hand of Midian.”
23But Gideon told them, “I will not rule over you, nor will my son rule over you. The Lord will rule over you.” (Judges 8)
Thoughts: Earthly rule is necessary but fickle. A ruler may be loved one minute and hated the next. Gideon saved the people of God in a miraculous way. In gratitude and in an effort for more of his protection, they offered him a monarchy.
Gideon turned them down as Jesus did (as recorded in John 6:15, after the feeding of the five thousand). It is a bit reminiscent of how some of George Washington's officers offered him a kingship but he turned them down.
After Gideon died, the Israelites forgot his sons (8:35), but they more importantly forgot the God that Gideon had called them back to worship. Gideon's humility was amazing. But even Gideon was a sinner. But he was willing to value God's glory over his won honor. Gideon knew the real king is Jesus. We should recognize that as well.
Gideon turned them down as Jesus did (as recorded in John 6:15, after the feeding of the five thousand). It is a bit reminiscent of how some of George Washington's officers offered him a kingship but he turned them down.
After Gideon died, the Israelites forgot his sons (8:35), but they more importantly forgot the God that Gideon had called them back to worship. Gideon's humility was amazing. But even Gideon was a sinner. But he was willing to value God's glory over his won honor. Gideon knew the real king is Jesus. We should recognize that as well.
Prayer: Lord, let me value your glory over my glory.
No comments:
Post a Comment