What lessons can parents learn from Gideon's interaction with Jether in Judges 8:20? Setting the Scene “ ‘Get up and kill them!’ But the boy did not draw his sword; he hesitated, because he was still a youth.” – Judges 8:20 Snapshot of Gideon and Jether • Gideon, fresh from God-given victory, calls on his firstborn, Jether, to execute two Midianite kings. • Jether’s reluctance is immediate; Scripture notes he “was still a youth.” • Gideon then finishes the task himself (v. 21). Key Lessons for Modern Parents • Expectation Must Match Maturity – Gideon’s request highlights a father’s desire to involve his child in significant responsibility. – Jether’s hesitation reminds us that emotional and spiritual readiness varies with age (cf. Colossians 3:21). • Courage Is Modeled Before It Is Required – Gideon shows bravery first (Judges 7:19-22; 8:21). – Children learn boldness best by watching consistent parental example (1 Corinthians 16:13). • Opportunity Without Preparation Leads to Fear – Jether had no recorded prior experience with combat. – Parents are called to “train up a child in the way he should go” (Proverbs 22:6); instruction precedes expectation. • Gentleness Prevents Discouragement – Gideon does not scold or shame his son for the hesitation. – Scripture cautions, “Fathers, do not provoke your children, so they will not become discouraged” (Colossians 3:21). • Responsibility Should Be Gradual and Supported – Deuteronomy 6:6-7 urges ongoing, daily teaching, not sudden, overwhelming tasks. – Growth in faith and life skills comes step by step, with parents close by to guide and, when needed, to step in. Practical Takeaways for the Home 1. Assess readiness prayerfully. Ask, “Has my child been prepared for what I’m asking?” 2. Give incremental assignments: small chores, simple ministry involvement, age-appropriate leadership roles. 3. Encourage openly: speak words of affirmation before, during, and after tasks. 4. Model courage: let children see parents face challenges with faith (Joshua 1:9). 5. Provide a safety net: be willing to finish the task if it proves too weighty, just as Gideon did. 6. Debrief afterward: discuss what happened, celebrate effort, and identify growth areas. Closing Thoughts Gideon’s brief exchange with Jether offers a timeless picture: a father eager to pass on courage, a son not yet fully ready, and a lesson in patient, intentional training. Parents today are called to the same balance—setting high, faith-filled expectations while nurturing children’s hearts with wisdom, gentleness, and steady example. |
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