In Judges 9, we read the story of Gideon's son, Abimelech. This man's mother was from the region of Shechem. Abimelech wants to be a big shot, but has 70 brothers standing in his way. He approaches the men of Shechem, and becomes their king. He then kills his 70 brothers, but one (Jotham) escapes.
Jotham prophesies against Abimelech, who reigns over Shechem for 3 years. At that point, God stirs up strife against Abimelech (to avenge the death of his brothers). They make Gaal their king because he is a full-blood brother to them. Abimelech repays them by burning the city and them. Neither Abimelech nor Shechem are serving God, and are slated for judgement. Abimelech meets his fate when a woman drops a mill stone on his head. He orders his servant to kill him to avoid the ignominy of having been slain by a woman.
Abimelech is an example of one who has a flesh-based faithfulness. It is founded on his own desires and needs. Spirit-based faithfulness is solid and not moved by circumstances or a personal agenda.
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