Scripture Reading: Judges 9:5
And he went unto his father’s house at Ophrah, and slew his brethren the sons of Jerubbaal, being threescore and ten persons, upon one stone: notwithstanding yet Jotham the youngest son of Jerubbaal was left; for he hid himself.

Reflections: Even though Abimilech succeeded in killing all his seventy siblings he failed to get Jotham. He had hidden himself. After awhile, Jotham resurfaced from his hide out and openly narrated a parable which exposed the wicked intentions of Abimilech and his illegitimacy to the throne. The hiding environment had accorded him the wisdom to develop this strategy to topple Abimilech’s usurpation of power. In response, God judged the wicked acts of Abimilech and his friends which led to his untimely death (Judges 9:56-57). Israel was thus freed from an autocratic, malicious, uncouth, callous and devilish self imposed ruler. All this happened because Jotham saw the wisdom to hide himself unlike his other brothers. In life there are times that you must just retreat and leave the limelight for awhile. It gives you time and inspiration to forge ahead new winning strategies to combat the challenges confronting you. ‘Strategic hiding’ will prove to be a blessing to you time and time over. Learn to go into Strategic hiding from time to time.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to appreciate the need to go into strategic hiding anytime the occasion demands it.

Confession:  I hide or retreat whenever the need arises. I remain on the winning side.