How can we discern God's will in conflicts, as seen in Judges 9:23? Setting the Scene - Judges 9 recounts Abimelech’s ruthless rise to power and his uneasy alliance with Shechem. - Verse 23 says, “Then God sent an evil spirit between Abimelech and the citizens of Shechem, and they acted treacherously against Abimelech.” - God is not passive; He actively intervenes—even through conflict—to expose sin and accomplish His purposes. What Judges 9:23 Teaches about God’s Will in Conflict - God rules over unseen and seen realms. The “evil spirit” is under His sovereign control. - Conflict can be a divine tool for justice. Abimelech’s bloodshed is answered with division and downfall. - God’s will is ultimately moral and redemptive, even when He permits turmoil. Recognizing God’s Hand When Tensions Rise • Moral Alignment – God never contradicts His own character (Isaiah 55:8-9). – Evaluate whether positions or actions align with clear biblical commands. • Consequences that Expose Sin – In Shechem, hidden motives surfaced; conflict revealed corruption. – Ask: Is God uncovering wrongdoing that needs repentance? • Providential Timing – Unexpected shifts, doors closing, alliances crumbling may signal God redirecting (Proverbs 16:9). • Inner Conviction by the Spirit – Peace that accompanies obedience versus unrest when resisting (1 Corinthians 14:33). • Consistency with Scriptural Wisdom – The Word remains the primary guide (Psalm 119:105). Practical Steps for Discerning God’s Will Today 1. Seek wisdom directly from God. “Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God…” (James 1:5). 2. Test motives. Are pride, revenge, or self-protection driving decisions, as with Abimelech? 3. Consult Scripture before strategy. Let passages about justice, forgiveness, and truth shape responses. 4. Invite godly counsel. Mature believers help detect blind spots and spiritual threats. 5. Watch for providential indicators. Unforeseen obstacles or opportunities may reveal direction. 6. Evaluate fruit. Does the chosen course foster righteousness, peace, and growth, or escalate sin? (Matthew 7:16 principle). 7. Commit to obedience even when costly. God’s will may involve corrective disruption before restoration. Supporting Scriptures - Genesis 50:20 – God turns human evil for good. - Romans 8:28 – “God works all things together for the good of those who love Him.” - Ephesians 6:12 – Conflict often has spiritual dimensions. - Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust and acknowledge Him; He will make paths straight. Key Takeaways - Conflict is not outside God’s jurisdiction; He can use it to judge, purify, and guide. - Discernment rests on Scripture, prayerful dependence, and awareness of providence. - When motives are surrendered and actions align with God’s revealed Word, believers can navigate tensions confident that His perfect will prevails. |
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