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: After Gideon was laid to rest, his children grieved the loss. Jotham, his son, felt threatened as he realized that his half-brother Abimelech was plotting to eliminate all of them to become king. Jotham wisely chose to hide, a decision that proved to be crucial when Abimelech carried out his plan to kill all seventy of his siblings. Later, Jotham came out of hiding and openly shared a story that exposed Abimelech’s evil actions and his lack of right to the throne. Consequently, God punished Abimelech, leading to his timely demise (Judges 9:56-57). This deed freed Israel from the tyranny of its self-imposed ruler. This account emphasizes the importance of recognizing when to step back and take a break from the limelight to devise fresh strategies to confront life’s obstacles.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help me understand the need for strategic hiding.

Confession: I tend to withdraw or take cover when necessary.