Moment of Meditation: Gideon Refuses to Rule (Judges 8:23)

Original Broadcast: July 2009

Monthly Theme: The Judges of Israel

But Gideon told them, "I will not rule over you,
nor will my son rule over you.
The LORD will rule over you."
(Judges 8:23)

Gideon Refuses to Rule

It's the first time we have people of Israel wanting a king. With God's help, Gideon defeated the Midianites and delivered freedom to Israel. For his reward, they wanted to make him king: "Rule over us--you, your son and your grandson--because you have saved us out of the hand of Midian" (v22).

It was the same in our own country two centuries ago. George Washington made great strides in the colonies' struggle for independence. In recognition of his heroics in battle, many in the Continental Congress wanted to proclaim Washington the king of America. He flatly refused, just as Gideon, because the colonies wanted to re-create the tyranny they had just overthrew.

Gideon knew better. Israel had been set up with one king--God. There was room for no one else to have the power. Gideon humbly took the role and office of judge that God had given to him. Forty years he judged. He personally and Israel as a nation both prospered greatly during his time in office.

Who is the king of your heart? Is it God or someone/something else? If it's not God, pray for the strength to be able to overthrow the tyrant currently reigning in your heart and place the compassionate, caring Father on the throne. Amen.