Judges // Week 6
Have you ever seen those videos that were all over social media where a parent sets a treat in front of their child and tells them to wait until they get back to eat it and they will get double? It’s hilarious to see the child weighing the cost and fighting the urge to eat the candy right then and there. What a perfect example of our battle with instant gratification and impulsivity.
We live in a world where we can get whatever we want, when we want it. Patience is less of a virtue and more of something to be avoided if possible. Jephathah makes a vow in haste (Jdg. 11:30-35), and although the text doesn’t specifically address his daughters fate following the vow - his rash and impulsive vow led to great personal suffering. Not only did his choice cause himself much grief and anguish, having to sacrifice his only child, but the consequences of his sin caused a ripple effect leading to suffering and hardship in the lives of those he loves. Similarly, Jesus took the consequence of our sin, but our actions still cause distress when we aren’t aligned with God’s will.
Despite the severity of Jephthath’s sin, there is hope in seeking forgiveness and redemption. The beauty of the Gospel is that through Jesus' death on the cross, we are forgiven of our trespasses and made new through the power of the Holy Spirit. There will be many times we sin and fall short of the glory of God, but in repentance, we find freedom and continued renewal. Although the consequences of sin may linger, God’s grace is sufficient to cover even the gravest of mistakes.
Although we have the freedom to make our own choices, would we be people who take time to reflect on our actions and align ourselves with God’s will, seeking forgiveness and grace when we falter.
As you process today’s reading, consider these questions:
What has God been saying to you?
Do you have any unconfessed or repented sin?
What are you going to do in response to what God has been saying to you?
