Daily Bible Reading — Sustained By God’s Word Of FaithParaugs

May 16

Introduction

As noted in the conclusion of yesterday’s reading, Gideon’s concubine in Shechem bore him a son, and Gideon named him Abimelech. After Abimelech kills his seventy brothers, the people of Shechem make him king. He is the first Israelite to take this title. (Ironically, his name means “my father is king.”) Yet Gideon himself had declared that neither he nor his son would rule over Israel and that only the LORD would be Israel’s ruler (Judges 8:23). Gideon’s youngest son, Jotham, survived Abimelech’s murderous plot and denounces Abimelech’s actions. In satirical fashion, he tells the men of Shechem a parable that warns against selecting someone to be king who has not been chosen by God.

Today’s Scripture: Judges 9:16b

[Jotham said:] “Did you respect Gideon’s memory and treat his family properly, as his actions deserved?”

Today’s Reading

Judges 9:1-21

Reflect

What prompted Abimelech’s rise to a position of leadership (verses 1-3)? What did Jotham ask the people to remember about Gideon, his father (verse 17)? Reread verses 8-15. In this parable, the olive tree, the fig tree, and the grapevine all provide much needed and useful products. The thorn bush provided some shade in a sunny, dry climate but was often burned for fuel. How do you interpret this parable? What point do you think this parable makes about kingship?

Pray

Lord God, order my steps this day and teach me to make wise choices that are in accord with your will. May my words and actions honor and glorify you. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Migrant and seasonal farm workers

Tomorrow’s Reading

Judges 9:22-57: Hostility arises during the time of Abimelech’s leadership.