Judges 8
Gideon had heroically defeated the Midianite marauders and put them to flight. As his army chased the Midianites, they needed food. But none of the Israelites that they encountered along the way were willing to give them any.
This betrayal is a turning point in the story of Gideon. He takes cruel revenge on those who were too fearful to help him. His execution of the enemy kings does not go according to plan. But worst of all, he makes an idol that resembles a true symbol of God, confusing the people and confounding much of his positive influence. Gideon also goes on to live selfishly, taking many wives, although to his credit he refuses to become a king.
When we are betrayed by friends it is tempting to get even by betraying God. When we are trying to do a good thing in God's name and people oppose us and make it a failure then blame us, it is tempting to tell everyone who will listen about the injustice. We want everyone to know how bad those people are and that we are not failures. This does not really get back at them, it only hurts us. People do not care if you have failed, they will like you if they think you would not betray them. By refusing to speak badly of those who have hurt us we will be able to have a positive influence on those around us.
No comments:
Post a Comment