A Powerful Weapon

A Powerful Weapon

A Woman Of Thebez

Read: Judges 9:52-53

As Abimelech attacked the tower in Thebez, one quick-thinking woman on the roof discovered an unusual but effective weapon. When she saw Abimelech getting ready to set fire to the entrance below, she grabbed a nearby millstone, used for grinding grain, and dropped it. The millstone landed on Abimelech’s head and crushed his skull. While the men in the tower were probably wishing for bows and arrows, spears, or other traditional weapons, this woman used what was at hand.

We tend to admire certain strong people who look like spiritual giants, but God has given all his children everything they need to fight any battle that comes their way. Our faith and obedience protect us from Satan’s attacks as he tempts us to turn aside from following God. Our offensive weapons—prayer, God’s written Word, and his Holy Spirit within us—give us the power to do spiritual battle.

Although God has designated specific spiritual weapons, he also wants us to think creatively when doing his work. Sometimes we feel ill-equipped to do a certain job, when what we need is right at hand. Instead of wishing that we could accomplish more for God, a self-inventory might reveal overlooked skills, talents, connections, or material possessions waiting to be invested in God’s Kingdom. God used an ordinary wooden staff in Moses’ hand to perform miracles before the Egyptian pharaoh. God used a millstone and a woman to kill an evil madman. In God’s hands, common things can accomplish uncommon feats.

The LORD asked [Moses], “What is that in your hand?”

Exodus 4:2