How can we seek God's wisdom in conflicts, as seen in Judges 20:31? “Then the Benjamites came out to meet the troops and were lured away from the city. And they began to strike down and kill some of the soldiers as at other times, along the highways—one of which goes up to Bethel and the other to Gibeah—and in the open country; about thirty Israelites were killed.” Seeing the Scene • Israel’s forces deliberately retreat, drawing Benjamin’s army into an exposed position. • This tactical move is the outworking of guidance received after Israel sought the LORD (vv. 26-28). • Although thirty men fall, the apparent setback is part of a larger God-given plan that will soon turn the battle. What We Learn about Seeking God’s Wisdom in Conflict • Ask before acting – Judges 20:18, 23, 28 shows Israel repeatedly “inquired of the LORD.” – James 1:5: “Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God… and it will be given to him.” • Accept God’s timing – Two earlier assaults failed (vv. 21, 25). Waiting on the LORD refined hearts and exposed sin. – Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us that straight paths come as we “lean not on [our] own understanding.” • Follow His strategy, not merely His permission – Verse 31’s decoy maneuver wasn’t human cleverness alone; it came after fasting, worship, and listening (v. 26). – Psalm 32:8: “I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go.” • Stay united under Scripture’s authority – All eleven tribes acted “as one man” (v. 11). Discord among God’s people invites defeat; unity under His Word invites blessing (Ephesians 4:3). • Expect partial, even painful, costs – Thirty lives were lost in the very plan God sanctioned. Conflicts may still hurt, yet His purposes stand (Romans 8:28). • Guard against personal vengeance – The goal was justice and purity in Israel (Judges 20:13), not revenge. Compare Romans 12:19-21. • Remain humble once victory comes – Later verses warn of overreaction; wise seekers keep mercy in view (Micah 6:8). Practical Steps for Today 1. Pause and pray—refuse to let adrenaline set your agenda. 2. Search Scripture for clear principles that speak to the issue. 3. Invite godly counsel; the Israelites gathered at Bethel, a place of worship and shared discernment. 4. Wait until the Spirit aligns heart, motive, and method. 5. Act with integrity—even an inspired strategy must honor righteousness. 6. Reassess continually; fresh guidance may redirect the plan mid-conflict. 7. Celebrate God’s faithfulness, giving Him credit rather than applauding human ingenuity. Summing It Up Judges 20:31 proves that God’s wisdom can turn conflict on its head, but only for those who persistently seek Him, accept His timing, and obey His specific leading. Asking, listening, and following—these three steps keep believers in step with the One whose counsel never fails. |
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