April 10

The story of Abimelek in Judges 9 is a sobering reminder of what happens when people seek power and control apart from God. Abimelek, driven by ambition, seizes the throne through violence and manipulation. However, his reign is marked by destruction, and in the end, his downfall comes at the hands of a woman dropping a millstone on him. His story contrasts sharply with Judges 11, where Jephthah, though an unlikely leader, is used by God to deliver Israel.  

These accounts remind us that selfish ambition leads to ruin, but trusting in God's direction brings deliverance. When we seek power for ourselves, like Abimelek, we fall. But when we humble ourselves before God, He can use us for His purposes, as He did with Jephthah.  

In Psalm 17, David cries out to God for justice:  "Hear me, Lord, my plea is just; listen to my cry. Let my vindication come from You; may Your eyes see what is right." (Psalm 17:1-2)  

Like David, we may face injustice, betrayal, or hardship, but we can rest in the assurance that God is the ultimate Judge. His justice prevails, even when evil seems to prosper for a time.  

In Luke 23, Jesus, though completely innocent, is sentenced to death. He endures the cross, mocked by the very ones He came to save. Yet, even in His suffering, He extends grace:  "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." (Luke 23:34)  

The contrast between Jesus and the rulers of Judges 9-11 is striking. Unlike Abimelek, who sought his own glory, Jesus humbled Himself, endured injustice, and offered mercy. His death was not a failure but the ultimate victory—through His sacrifice, we receive forgiveness and eternal life.  

When we feel wronged, we can trust in God's justice, just as David did. When we struggle with surrender, we can look to Jesus, who showed that true victory comes through humility, trust, and obedience to God’s will.  

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