Joseph Attoh 
The account of Jephthah in Judges 11 presents a compelling lesson on spiritual awareness, identity, and the power of knowing what God has already given His people. When the Ammonites rose to wage war against Israel, Jephthah, leader of the Gileadites, did not rush into battle. Instead, he engaged the king of Ammon with a firm understanding of Israel’s God-given inheritance, asking, “What do you have against me, that you have come to fight against me in my land?” (Judges 11:12).
Jephthah’s victory was rooted not merely in military strength but in knowledge. He understood the historical and spiritual basis of Israel’s possession of the land of Gilead, which God had taken from the Amorites – not the Ammonites. This distinction, subtle yet significant, exposed the falsehood in the enemy’s claim. It was, indeed, an “R” and not an “N.” Armed with truth, Jephthah dismantled intimidation and secured victory for Israel.
This principle resonates strongly with New Testament believers. Scripture affirms that God “has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ” (Eph. 1:3). Yet ignorance often prevents believers from identifying and exercising these privileges. As 2 Peter 1:3 declares, all that pertains to life and godliness is accessed through knowledge of Christ. Consciousness of inheritance begins with understanding.
Jephthah’s personal background makes his story even more profound. Rejected by his family and labelled the son of a prostitute, he was denied an inheritance. Still, he refused to let his past define his purpose. God, who chooses the despised and overlooked, later raised him as Israel’s deliverer. His life affirms that circumstances, labels, or family history do not determine destiny – God alone does.
In confronting the king of Ammon, Jephthah relied on Israel’s salvation history, recounting how God delivered His people and secured their land. The enemy’s strategy was deception, but Jephthah countered with truth. Likewise, believers today must respond to fear and intimidation with the Word of God. Prayer remains vital, but it must be rooted in Scripture, for God responds to His Word.
As Jephthah spoke God’s truth, the Spirit of the Lord came upon him (Judg. 11:29). This underscores a timeless truth: the Holy Spirit moves in response to God’s Word. May believers, fully aware of their inheritance, boldly declare the truth and stand firm in Christ.
Written by Elijah Nyarko Boadi, PIWC Odorkor
About The Author
