Pride and politics.

At our Bible class today we focused our thoughts on Judges 8:1-21 - Gideon had subdued the Midianites. After the great victory over the enemy, he and his men now had to continue with mopping up operations.

He approached the Ephraimites for assistance in subduing the enemy, but got a negative response. They were peeved and complained that they had not been included in the earlier battle. They felt they had been slighted or ignored and their pride hurt. Yes, there were those in Israel who were more concerned with their pride and their own glory than the glory of God. They were focused on their own interests. There are always politics in the church! We find their own kind in our church today!

Gideon practised diplomacy and used the soft answer that turned away wrath. Gideon assured them that their accomplishments thus far were ever greater than Gideon's and his tribe. His diplomatic response averted further conflict with the Ephraimites. Christians must learn the art of diplomacy.

Then they were those when appraoched to help out with food, refused to contribute bread to the 300 men who were pursuing the enemy. These brave soldiers were hungry and exhausted but their fellow countrymen just simply refused to provide some food. Probably they were afraid of Midianite reprisals should Gideon's venture failed. They were more concerned for the safety of their own tribe than the welfare of the whole nation. Sadly they would not help their own people who had delivered the nation from the enemy.

Gideon gave them warning. Later when he and his men returned from victory he carried out the threat he made earlier. He reached Succoth, took the 75 leaders and punished them through thorns and briers. He came to Penial, tore down their tower and killed the elders.

Let us not be judgemental for it is difficult to determine whether this form of punishment was necessary or justified. We have the advantage of hindsight. But they lived in different times and the culture of the day had greatly influenced Gideon and his men.

Today, the church is like an army in battle. We need unity of spirit and suppport of each other. Let us not allow politics and conflicts to rob us of victory. Let us all seek first the Kingdom of God and His glory.