“The thornbush said to the trees, ‘If you really want to anoint me king over you, come and take refuge in my shade; but if not, then let fire come out of the thornbush and consume the cedars of Lebanon!’”
(Judges 9:15)

"Be Careful Who You Crown: A Reflection on Judges 9:15"

Judges 9:15 contains a parable told by Jotham, the youngest son of Gideon, as a warning to the people of Shechem. In the story, trees seek a king, and the thornbush—symbolizing Abimelek—offers to rule, but with a threat of destruction. This verse is a reminder to be wise in who and what we allow to lead us. Whether it’s people, influences, or personal desires, what we elevate can either shelter us or consume us. God calls us to discernment, integrity, and alignment with His truth.

Meditation

“The thornbush said to the trees, ‘If you really want to anoint me king over you, come and take refuge in my shade; but if not, then let fire come out of the thornbush and consume the cedars of Lebanon!’”
(Judges 9:15)

This vivid metaphor is spoken by Jotham in response to the people making Abimelek king after he killed his seventy brothers. In his parable, the trees represent the people seeking leadership. The fruitful trees (like the olive, fig, and vine) decline leadership, but the lowly and dangerous thornbush accepts it—with a chilling warning.

1. Be Wise About Who You Allow to Lead You

The thornbush is a plant that offers no real fruit, shelter, or benefit. It’s a symbol of harm, destruction, and self-interest. Yet, in desperation or shortsightedness, the trees accept its offer.

We must be discerning about who we follow—whether in leadership, relationships, or cultural trends. Choosing based on ambition or appearance rather than character leads to destruction.

• Proverbs 29:2 – “When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan.”

• Matthew 7:15-16 – “Watch out for false prophets... by their fruit you will recognize them.”

Leadership without integrity brings more harm than good.

2. Fruitfulness Is Not Always Found in Power

In Jotham’s parable, the olive, fig, and vine—all fruitful—decline kingship. They understand that their purpose is to serve, not to rule for selfish gain.

God often works through those who humbly remain rooted in purpose rather than seeking control.

• Matthew 23:11 – “The greatest among you will be your servant.”

• Micah 6:8 – “Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.”

It’s not the ones who clamor for power who change the world—but those who quietly bear good fruit.

3. What You Allow to Rule Can Shape or Scorch Your Life

The thornbush's “shade” is deceptive. Thornbushes offer no true protection—just the illusion of safety. And if rejected, the thornbush threatens fire. This represents leadership or influence rooted in pride, control, and retaliation.

What have you crowned in your life? Ambition? Ego? Fear? If the wrong things are seated on the throne of your heart, they will eventually burn what you value most.

• Exodus 20:3 – “You shall have no other gods before me.”

• Hebrews 12:29 – “Our God is a consuming fire.”

Only when God is the King of our hearts can we experience true peace, guidance, and blessing.

Bible verse of the day

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for Your truth and wisdom. Help me to be discerning in what and who I allow to influence my life. I don’t want to give authority to anything that doesn’t reflect Your heart.

Lord, I choose You as the King of my life. Uproot any “thornbushes” in my heart—anything that offers false protection or leads me away from Your will. Fill me with a spirit of humility, integrity, and wisdom.

Help me to follow those who lead with righteousness and to be a leader who serves with love. Let the fruit of my life bring You glory and bless those around me.

In Jesus' name,
Amen.