How does this verse challenge us to seek God's approval over human recognition? Abimelech’s Final Concern “ ‘Draw your sword and kill me, lest they say of me, “A woman killed him.” ’ So his young servant pierced him through, and he died.” (Judges 9:54) Human Recognition Exposed • Abimelech’s dying thought is not repentance or reconciliation with God but anxiety over his post-mortem reputation. • His request shows that even in the face of eternity, human opinion still rules his heart. • A life driven by public image ends in panic, not peace. God’s View of Honor • 1 Samuel 16:7 — “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” • Isaiah 2:22 — “Put no more trust in man, who has only the breath in his nostrils.” • Matthew 6:1 — Hidden righteousness wins the Father’s reward; public showmanship receives only fleeting applause. Contrast: Seeking the Lord’s Approval • Galatians 1:10 — Pursue being “a servant of Christ,” not “trying to please men.” • Colossians 3:23-24 — Work “for the Lord, not for men,” because “it is the Lord Christ you are serving.” • John 5:44 — Faith is impossible while craving glory from one another instead of the glory that comes from God. Lessons From Abimelech 1. Public acclaim can coexist with private rebellion; it cannot cancel divine judgment. 2. A last-minute scramble to salvage reputation reveals misplaced priorities throughout life. 3. Human praise evaporates; Scripture records Abimelech’s disgrace forever. Practical Ways to Choose God’s Approval • Begin each task by asking, “Will this please the Lord?” not “How will this look?” • Celebrate unseen obedience—serving, giving, praying where no one but God observes. • Redirect compliments upward: “By His grace” keeps glory where it belongs. • Regularly meditate on eternity; today’s headlines fade, Christ’s “Well done” endures. • Surround yourself with believers who value faithfulness over fame. Further Scriptures to Anchor the Heart • Proverbs 29:25 — Fear of man brings a snare. • Psalm 118:8 — Better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man. • 1 Corinthians 4:5 — The Lord will disclose motives and give true praise. Invitation to Examination Abimelech’s legacy urges every believer to trade the fragile approval of people for the lasting commendation of God. |
    |