Judges // Week 7

This year, the Resonate Conference theme was “His Fame in Our Time,” based on Habakkuk 3:2, 

“LORD, I have heard the news about you; I am amazed at what you have done. LORD, do great things again in our time; make those things happen again in our days. Even when you are angry, remember to be kind.”

 The hope is that we would remember God’s fame and all that He has done for us, and that we would ask Him to do it again. The judges we read about today, although the text doesn’t go into significant detail about their life, their selfless service in their God appointed roles is truly inspiring. As believers, we must ask ourselves - would we still faithfully serve even if nobody knew? 

Matthew 6:1-4 says, "Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to people in need, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing so that your giving may be secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done secretly, will reward you.” In this passage, Jesus is warning against self-righteousness. Are we pushing back against our desire to be recognized?

Ibzan, Elon and Abdon served faithfully and did as God had asked, solely for God’s glory. When you consider your positions of influence - are you using your influence for God’s glory or yours? In what ways are you drawn to lift up your name instead of the name of Jesus? When we are given positions of power or influence in our communities, it's crucial that we receive them with humility and reverence. The Son of Man came to serve, not be served (Matthew 20:28), therefore our posture in positions of influence should be one of service.

As you process today’s reading, would you spend time praying Habakkuk 3:2 and asking God to use you to proclaim His fame rather than yours?