Today’s reading: Judges 11:29-40

I have a hard time with this portion of Jephthah’s story. Every time I read this account, I think to myself, “Why in the world would Jephthah have offered up such a seemingly foolish oath to God? After all, who or what did he think would greet him upon his return?” Furthermore, it perplexes me that Jephthah felt he needed to bargain with God through a vow in order to be victorious in battle.

Jephthah’s story is a tragic one. God didn’t require or ask Jephthah for an oath, nor does He require or ask for them from us. In fact, the Bible instructs us not to make oaths (see Matthew 5:33-37 and James 5:12). Instead, God simply desires and asks for our love, trust and obedience.

No question today. I just ask you to think about this sad passage and the lessons it has for us. Tami

Source: Tami’s Blog