Abimelech was the son of Gideon and one of his concubines. After Gideon died, Abimelech became leader in Shechem and tried to consolidate his power by killing all but one of his brothers. He ruled Shechem for three years until a conflict broke out between him and the citizens of Shechem. In Judges 9:22-57, we read about the story of Abimelech and how he dealt with his conflicts and reconciliation.
Although Abimelech took drastic measures to gain power in Shechem, he also knew how to work to maintain power. When a faction revolted against him, instead of immediately going to war, he tried peace talks. After failing to come to terms, Abimelech led an attack against the city, but was wounded by a woman who threw a stone at his head. Rather than continue fighting, Abimelech asked his armor bearer to give him death so that his death would not be attributed to a woman.
Although Abimelech was a controversial ruler, his story teaches an important lesson about reconciliation. When faced with conflict, Abimelech tried to negotiate first rather than immediately resorting to violence. And when he was hurt, he didn’t try to get revenge or keep fighting. Instead, he accepted his death and allowed his squire to kill him so the fight would not continue.
The Bible teaches us that reconciliation is important and that we should try to resolve our conflicts peacefully. In Matthew 5:23-24, Jesus teaches us the importance of reconciliation with our brothers and sisters before presenting an offering to God. Paul also exhorts us to seek reconciliation in Romans 12:18, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all men.”
Abimelech’s story can be a lesson for us today in how to handle conflict and seek reconciliation. Even if the other person may have done something terrible, we must seek peace and try to find common ground. We must not seek revenge or continue fighting, but seek reconciliation so that we can live in peace with those around us.
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