Day 53 – Judges: Character sketch of Abimelech

“After Abimelech had ruled over Israel for three years, God sent a spirit that stirred up trouble between Abimelech and the leading citizens of Shechem, and they revolted. God was punishing Abimelech for murdering Gideon’s seventy sons, and the citizens of Shechem for supporting him in this treachery of murdering his brothers.” Judges 9:22-24 NLT

People who desire power always outnumber those who can use it wisely. Perhaps this is because power has a way of taking over and controlling those who use it recklessly. This is especially true in cases of inherited but unmerited power. Abimelech’s life shows us what happens hunger for power corrupts judgement.

Strengths and accomplishments

Abimelech was qualified in tactical planning and organising. What he set his mind to, he followed.

Weaknesses and mistakes

He was power-hungry and ruthless to get what he wanted making him overconfident in his decisions and actions. He saw the opportunity to be powerful and took advantage of his father’s position without imitating his character. Instead of joining forces with his siblings, he had 69 of them murdered.

Life lessons from Abimelech’s story

Our goals control our actions and there is a fine balance between having power and power having you. The corrupting effects of power require God’s wisdom in leaders.

Prayer: Father, thank You for showing the story of Abimelech so we can be vigilant over power. We know that with power comes responsibility and I pray today that those who have power to accomplish anything to be done in Your wisdom. Grant us the wisdom to guide and lead in love while we are active in exercising power in all areas of our lives. Amen.

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