How does Judges 9:10 challenge us to seek God's guidance in decisions? A Snapshot of Judges 9:10 “Then the trees said to the fig tree, ‘Come and reign over us.’” (Judges 9:10) The Parable in Brief • Jotham pictures the nation as trees hunting for a ruler. • Fruit-bearing trees (olive, fig, vine) decline the offer. • At last the thornbush—an unfruitful, dangerous plant—accepts (vv. 14-15). • The story exposes how Israel hurried to crown Abimelech without seeking the LORD’s direction. What the Trees Missed • They chose by appeal and availability, not by prayer or revelation. • They ignored the purpose each tree already had from God; they measured “leadership” only by desire. • Their urgency replaced discernment, echoing Israel’s later cry, “Now appoint a king to judge us” (1 Samuel 8:5). Lessons for Our Decision-Making 1. Notice the Absence of God – The text never mentions the trees consulting their Maker. – Psalm 32:8: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go.” If we skip that offer, we drift. 2. Character over Convenience – Olive, fig, and vine value their God-given fruit more than position. – Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to “trust in the LORD with all your heart,” not in the flashiest option. 3. Shortcuts Lead to Brambles – A thornbush “king” provides shade no one can safely use and threatens fire (Judges 9:15). – Choices made apart from God may look manageable but often wound those who take shelter under them. Practical Ways to Seek God’s Guidance • Pause—Refuse to let urgency set the timetable (Isaiah 28:16). • Pray—James 1:5 promises wisdom to those who ask. • Search Scripture—Let clear commands and principles filter every option (Psalm 119:105). • Counsel—Invite mature believers to weigh what you sense (Proverbs 15:22). • Evaluate Fruit—Does this path protect the gifts and calling God already assigned, or threaten them? The Cost of Going It Alone • Emotional: anxiety and regret replace peace (Colossians 3:15). • Relational: others suffer fallout when we crown the “bramble.” • Spiritual: disobedience dulls our hearing for the next decision (Hebrews 3:13). Walking Forward in Confidence When choices loom, Judges 9:10 whispers a timely caution: Don’t rush like the trees. Step back, invite the Lord of the garden into the process, and let His voice—not mere opportunity—decide who or what “reigns” in your life. |
    |