The skull serves two purposes: protecting the brain and supporting the face. When my trainer gave me a workout that included an exercise known as ‘skull crushers,’ I was a bit concerned. If he’d referred to them as supine tricep extensions, there would not have been nervous rumbling in my stomach. I’ve since learned that skull crushers are an excellent move to increase the definition of one of my favorite muscles, the tricep. And yet, each time I hear the name, I can’t help but think of the bible story about a woman who crushed a man’s skull with one blow.
Abimelech followed them to attack the tower. But as he prepared to set fire to the entrance, a woman on the roof dropped a millstone that landed on Abimelech’s head and crushed his skull. He quickly said to his young armor bearer, “Draw your sword and kill me! Don’t let it be said that a woman killed Abimelech!” So the young man ran him through with his sword, and he died. Judges 9:52-54 NLT
The Story of An Unnamed Woman
This unnamed woman had enough strength to lift part of a millstone and drop it from the roof. This woman saw evil taking shape and did something about it. Since beginning my powerlifting journey, God has shed new light on stories like this. No longer do I see women as one-dimensional characters in the Bible. I’ve learned that millstones can weigh hundreds of pounds. This unnamed woman from Thebez was strong. She is a daughter of Israel who can think quickly and take action. The entire population of Thebez had taken refuge in a strong tower, and Abimelech followed them. He planned to set the entrance on fire with all those innocent people inside.
Don’t Wait For Rescue
This woman saw the danger coming. Prompted deep within, she knew what had to be done. Her action not only crushed Abimelech’s skull but his pride as well. He begged his armor-bearer to kill him with a sword so he wouldn’t die by a woman’s hand. This is not a secular fairy tale where a handsome Prince swoops in to rescue the woman in the tower. This is the Word of God, showing us that He will not leave His children defenseless. May the power of the Holy Spirit prompt you to take action when needed. And may you act quickly to protect yourself and those close to you.
Let’s Reflect
How often do you hear God’s prompting to act quickly? Whether it’s a Holy Spirit nudge to pray or a feeling to take a different route, He could be protecting you. Take some time to consider those moments and thank Him for His protection.
Let’s Pray
Father, thank You for revealing the importance of physical strength for men and women. Thank You for not leaving us defenseless. Lord, there may be times when our situation seems hopeless like we’re trapped with no way out. Speak to our hearts Lord and direct us to safety. In Jesus’ name. Amen.