Asking God to guide our hearts

We remember Jephthah mainly for the rash vow he made to sacrifice whatever came out first from his door—his daughter, but human sacrifices were an abomination to God (Deut 12:31). How did Jephthah turn from a leader of the Gileadites to a rash fool?

Although Jephthah was born of a prostitute, Gilead took him in and fathered him (11:1). Yet Jephthah ultimately had to flee from his brothers (11:3). According to Mosaic law, it’s likely that being a prostitute’s son, Jephthah was indeed excluded from Gilead’s inheritance. Yet Jephthah’s brothers seemed to have driven him out not just to execute God’s justice, but out of selfish fear that he would affect their share of the inheritance (11:2).

Naturally, one would assume little from Jephthah who had been in the company of worthless men. Yet surprisingly, Jephthah showed his impressive leadership and knowledge of God’s people, as revealed in his words to the Ammonites. The Spirit of the Lord also worked in Jephthah (11:29), and the Lord gave the Ammonites to his hand (11:32). Indeed, God can use those whom we deem unworthy for His greater purpose. Yet, does being used by God mean that Jephthah was actually approved by God?

Jephthah was acknowledged by all as a valiant warrior, but pride festered within him. When the elders turned to Jephthah so that he may fight with them and be their leader, they made Jephthah take the place of God (11:8). Yet, instead of reflecting on his unworthiness, Jephthah sought right away to be their head (11:9)—to secure for himself a position at the very top—perhaps he just didn’t want to be cast out again; perhaps he wanted people to realise that he was specially chosen by God and above them all.

Before getting what he wanted, Jephthah’s response was both bitter and smug: “Did you not hate me and drive me out? Why have you come to me now when you are in trouble?” (11:7) Let us reflect: Firstly, like Jephthah, did we ever feel doubted and excluded because of our background? If the chance arises, would we let go of the hurt of being forgotten and misunderstood to serve our people, or would we step out only if we get the recognition we think we deserve? Secondly, just as how the elders specifically sought Jephthah, when a minister approaches us to help out for an important project/event, or when we’re chosen for a role that places us in the limelight, do we think: “Wow, even the ministers and God Himself must approve of me to be given this chance.”

Let us remember that God does not see as man sees—for man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at our heart (1 Sam 16:7). Out of the abundance of his prideful heart (Mt 12:34), Jephthah spoke foolish words that cost the life of someone whom he deeply loved. May God help us to guard our hearts (Prov 4:23).

Reflection questions

• Have we taken the place of God in judging someone? Have we been jealous of someone whom we consider undeserving of our Father’s grace? Have we feared that this person would threaten our “place” in church?

• Have we viewed and excluded someone with suspicion because of their background, and as a result, driven them away from our Father’s house with our words and actions?

• What position do we seek amongst the people of God, and why? Do we covet a prominent role to show off ourselves, our knowledge and our skills? Do we serve quietly from a pure heart of thanksgiving towards God in places unseen?