The book of Judges tells the history of the people of Israel and their cycle of sin, repent, repeat. The book describes incomprehensible horrors as men sought position and power over the people. 

Abimelech was a son of Gideon, by a concubine in Shechem. After Gideon’s death, he went to the leaders of Shechem and asked whether they wanted to be ruled by the 70 sons of Gideon or by one of their people, him. The leaders of Shechem chose Abimelech. Abimelech and a band of unsavory characters killed the 70 sons of Gideon.

Abimelech committed evil in killing his half-brothers. In judgment, God’s Spirit stirred the leaders of Shechem against Abimelech and he was killed. In Chapter 10 the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord once again. This time God stirred up the Philistines and Ammonites against Israel to punish them. 

God uses his Spirit to punish arrogance and evil. People may succeed in their evil schemes for a time but God watches over his people and is ready to punish evil-doers. God may stir up ungodly nations to punish those who turn from him. 

It is sad to see nations that once were God-fearing, turn to evil only to have God stir up trouble against the nation. God will punish evil people and godly people will have to suffer also. Godly people can lead the way to repentance by reminding people of God’s mercy and grace. 

God’s Spirit stirs within people to accomplish God’s purposes, whether blessing or judgment. I cannot fathom God’s ways and means of accomplishing his purpose. I can only be accountable for my response to his Spirit stirring within me.

Heavenly Father, I desire to be discerning of your Spirit. I want to be sensitive to your speaking to me and prompting me to action. Amen. 

Rev. Steve Ruberg, Princeton, N.C.