Re:Verse passage – Judges 7:23-24, 8:1-9 (day seven)
“When I return safely, I will tear down this tower.” Judges 8:9
Pride goes before destruction… Proverbs 16:18
If you have ever played some sort of organized sport, you have probably heard a coach say, “There is no I in team.” Why is this phrase so popular in athletic circles? Tell me, do you think kids who are playing basketball in their driveway are imagining themselves sitting on the bench while someone else shoots the game winning shot? No, they are imagining being the one who hits the buzzer beater and being carried off on their teammates shoulders!
It is human (sinful) nature to want to be in the limelight (pride). Especially once you have gotten a taste of success, you begin to crave it! Coaches fight this attitude in their players, because self centered play in sports can destroy a team. Similarly, self centered leadership can destroy an organization. Gideon has tasted success, but he is beginning to let that success change his leadership.
Rick..i always enjoy reading these! Thank you! A gr8 thought as I begin a new teaching year, and for Dad beginning football .. and all leaders!