Judges 11:23-33

Jephthah then explained how religious beliefs were a huge part of the whole deal. His God, Yahweh, gave the Israelites the land way back then. Chemosh, the god of the Ammonites should direct the Ammonites to their land. However due the mixed cultures at the time, Chemosh was also the god of the Moabites as well. Per the commentary: Finally, as another reason, he explained a similar event that had happened earlier. Balak had made peace with Israel’s people and he had not demanded to have the country. Israelites had been there for 300 years. The people in Ammon had not decided to say anything during all that time. Then Jephthah said that the Lord was the real judge. He would settle this case. v. 28 said that the king of the Ammonites wouldn't listed which would then cause the ultimate conflict - war.

The Spirit of God came upon him as he got an army to fight. Jephthah also made a foolish vow that upon victory, he would sacrifice the whatever would meet him upon his return. He had a very distorted view of what God wanted and desired from his people. He displayed as a leader the traits what the people lack - an understanding of God and the Law. The Lord did give victory to him as he soundly defeated the  Ammonites and came home the victor.

Decent day yesterday... Got some stuff done in the apartment as well after the late night and heading up to Best Buy to return and get credit on my purchase. Really enjoying the additional monitor attached to the laptop and can't wait for the baseball season to start and get into full swing. Not looking forward to the wintry mix late tonight so I guess I'll skip the gym tomorrow.

Praise for today: I lift up my eyes to the hills - where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 121: 1-2