Bible Chapter: Judges 11 & 12

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    Sometimes people make snap judgements based on poor information.  We see that happening here.  A son, a brother was kicked out of the family.  Later they decided that he was important to them.  This is a lesson in being careful how and why people make decisions.
    We also see the importance of God’s power enabling people to do great deeds.  The Spirit of the Lord came on Jephthah to empower him to win the victory.  The Spirit of God is still, He is always available to empower God’s people to do whatever God knows needs to be done.
    While this is a story of victory, it is also a frustrating story.  Jephthah made a rash vow and it brought pain to him and his daughter.  Stories of rash vows bring pain.  It is a good lesson on the importance of thinking before making a vow to God.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    I look at the reason why Jephthah was shunned by his siblings.  It is sad.  It shows the importance of thinking, of realizing the implications of decisions made on weak foundations.  While it appeared on the surface to be rational, they later realized their mistake.  Sadly, much pain had already happened.  Learning to think before decisions are made is important.  Learning to base decisions on proper biblical interpretation is also critical.

3.  How can I help someone?
    God created the family.  It is the first social unit He made.  This story shows how families can be broken through bad choices.  Many have experienced hurt and missed out on the benefits of a good family relationship because of bad choices.  I want to help people see the importance of good choices and a solid foundation for family relationships.