Scripture

After Abimelech had ruled over Israel for three years, God sent a spirit that stirred up trouble between Abimelech and the leading citizens of Shechem, and they revolted. God was punishing Abimelech for murdering Gideon’s seventy sons, and the people of Shechem for supporting him in this treachery.

Observation

After Abimelech has ruled over Israel for three years, God sends a spirit to stir up trouble, in order to punish Abimelech and the citizens of Shechem. A man called Gaal moves to Shechem and he starts to speak out against Abimelech.

Abimelech and his men go to Shechem and surround it at night. At first, an army led by Gaal overwhelms them, but Abimelech regroups and captures the city. He kills the people and levels the city.

Abimelech and his men then go to a town called Thebez. The people flee to a strong tower from where a woman drops a millstone on Abimelech, killing him.

Application

God sent a disruptive spirit to punish both Abimelech and the people of Shechem. This spirit manifested itself through the person of Gaal. The subsequent events are quite horrific with many people being killed in a nasty battle. How can God do such a thing?

When we look at the affairs of nations, we can not easily see how God is at work. He uses evil spirits, bad people and whole populations to achieve His purposes.

We should not be dismayed by these things, even if we cannot understand them. In the end, God is in control and that is what matters.

Prayer

Thank you, Lord, for the knowledge that in all things you work for the good of your people. Help me to trust you in all things. Amen.