How can we seek help from God like Gilead's elders sought Jephthah? Setting the Scene “When the Ammonites made war on Israel, the elders of Gilead went to get Jephthah from the land of Tob.” (Judges 11:5) Scripture accurately records a moment when desperate leaders recognized their need, swallowed pride, and reached out for the one deliverer God had prepared. Their actions model how we can seek help from God today. What the Elders Did Right • Acknowledged the crisis instead of denying it • Left their comfort zone and “went to get” the deliverer (v. 5) • Accepted Jephthah despite past rejection (v. 7–8) • Formed a clear, humble request for help Recognizing Our Own Need for Rescue The elders acted because war was at the gate. We may face: • Pressing sin we can’t conquer (Romans 7:24) • Family or financial strain (Psalm 86:1–7) • Spiritual apathy (Revelation 2:4–5) Admitting need is the first step toward divine intervention. Turning to the Greater Deliverer Jephthah foreshadows Jesus—our ultimate Savior: • Rejected, then sought after (Isaiah 53:3; John 1:11–12) • Raised up by God for deliverance (Acts 13:23) • Welcomes those who come in faith (John 6:37) Practical Steps to Seek Help from God Today 1. Identify the battle. Be specific about the struggle you face. 2. Humble yourself. “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.” (James 4:10) 3. Approach boldly. “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence.” (Hebrews 4:16) 4. Ask in faith, not bargaining. The elders tried to negotiate; Christ invites simple, believing prayer (Matthew 7:7–11). 5. Submit to His terms. Whatever He commands—obey (John 2:5). 6. Trust His timing. “Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.” (Isaiah 40:31) Promises to Anchor Our Hearts • Psalm 121:1–2 — Help comes from the LORD, Maker of heaven and earth. • Psalm 50:15 — “Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor Me.” • 1 Peter 5:7 — “Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.” • Philippians 4:19 — God supplies every need “according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Living It Out Like Gilead’s elders, don’t wait until the enemy overruns your life. Come quickly, honestly, and expectantly to the Deliverer God has provided. His door is open, His power is sufficient, and His heart is inclined to rescue all who call on His name. |
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