How great is our God!

 Read 1 Samuel 2:1-11. 

There is no joy that compares to a direct answer to a prayer from God.  When there is a specific, urgent need, and our dependence is cast solely upon Him, and we get to see the Hand of God move in our favor, we rejoice. 

Hannah's prayer is one that expresses her clear view of who God is and how He has vindicated her.  Her thoughts were not about herself and what she received, but how great the LORD is.  Keep in mind that she lived in a time without a Bible and without a local church.  But she worshipped God, she had been taught, and God had revealed Himself to her.v.2

"There is none holy like the LORD"

"There is none besides you"

"There is no rock like our God"

-The God of the Bible is the only God there is.  There are not multiple gods that humans may merely choose what they want to believe.  There is no one else but this One.v.3

"The LORD is a God of knowledge"

"By him actions are weighed"

-The God of the Bible is omniscient.  He knows and is concerned with the details of every life.  He is the Judge of the universe.  One day, everyone will be held accountable before Him for their actions in this life.

vv.4-5-These are two examples in a series of God's control and power to reverse human thinking and situations.  Peninnah bore sons and daughters for Elkanah, but it was this one son of Hannah who influenced a nation.v.6

"The LORD kills and brings to life"

-He holds the power of life and death.v.7

"The LORD makes poor and makes rich; he brings low and exalts."

-He is the potter.  We are the clay.  As the owner of all things, He fashions each life as He desires.v.8

"For the pillars of the earth are the LORD's, and on them he has set the world."

-Creation is not confined to the opening chapters of Genesis.  The God of the Bible is the Creator and Controller of all things.v.9

"He will guard the feet of his faithful ones."

-His personal care is especially demonstrated in how He protects and provides for those who are good stewards of His stuff.v.10

"The adversaries of the LORD shall be broken to pieces"

"The LORD will judge the ends of the earth"

-Those who choose to rebel against Him by their actions or by their apathy will one day pay an awful eternal price.  No one who rejects the LORD gets away with it. 

How great is our God today!

 

A godly parent's perspective on Children

 Read 1 Samuel 1. 

The times of the Judges in Israel were repeatedly labeled as "everyone did what was right in their own eyes" (Judges 21:25).  Yet, the Bible provides occasional stories of those who stood in contrast to their culture and who followed the LORD wholeheartedly.  One was Ruth.  Now, we learn about the last Judge of Israel, Samuel. 

Elkanah and his family worshipped God.  Hannah knew her husband loved her, but the emptiness she felt from having no children became excruciatingly painful.  To add insult to injury, the other wife proved fertile and used it to emotionally and verbally abuse Hannah.

As a godly woman, Hannah went to be alone with the Lord and pour out her heart to Him.  In her prayer, she made a promise.  If He would grant her a son, she would dedicate him to God's service with a Nazarite vow.  Samson was dedicated before birth with the same vow.  The High Priest, Eli, saw her in such distress but heard no sound.  He thought she was drunk.  When he realized his error, he gave assurance that she would receive the answer to her prayer. 

By the next year when Elkanah's family arrived for the annual sacrifice, God had given them a son.  It is believed that Samuel was probably three years of age by the time Hannah presented him to Eli. 

While it is difficult for us to even think about giving up a child, especially at such a young age, Hannah's statement in verse 27 is on the hearts of every Christian parent.  "For this child I prayed, and the LORD has granted me my petition that I made to him." 

1. Believing parents pray for their children even before they are born. 

2. The LORD grants children to parents.  They are not biological accidents.  They belong to God.

Psalm 127:3-"Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb is his reward." 

3. The LORD lends children to a mother and father as a stewardship.

Ephesians 6:4-"Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord."

 

Everyone Loves a Happy Ending

 Read Ruth 4. 

Boaz arrived early at the gate of the city where official business was conducted.  He obviously prepared what he would say.  He knew the man would be coming and waited for him.  At first, the deal was presented only as a real estate transaction.  But truly Boaz had only one thing in mind and that was Ruth. 

This unnamed nearer kinsman became eager for Boaz to step in.  The reason had to do with the law.  To refuse outright would have meant public shame.  The custom was that one took possession of land by literally walking upon the soil.  Symbolically, by removing his shoe the man gave up his right to walk on that soil as the owner.  Because this was a friendly transaction, there was no spitting in his face, as Deuteronomy would have required. 

The story of Ruth is an exception during the time of the Judges when "everyone did what was right in their own eyes".   Here we are told that not everyone rebelled against God. 

Who does not love a happy ending?  This is one of the best in the Bible. 

Boaz became a happy husband and father. 

Naomi's bitterness was changed to praises to God for what He has done in providing for them. (v.14) 

Ruth, the Moabite, embraced the LORD, the people of God, and now a husband who had redeemed her from the destitute situation of widowhood.  She became a mother.  Indeed, she was the great-grandmother of King David.  

By the way, this story took place in the city of Bethlehem and would become known as the city of David.  Over a thousand years later, the Roman government sent out a decree that all the world should be taxed (Luke 2).  Mary and Joseph journeyed to Bethlehem of Judea for the registration.  That is where Jesus was born.  Ruth is one of five women mentioned in Matthew 1 in the lineage of the Messiah. 

It is a great reminder that as long as we have breath our story is not over.  God has a wonderful plan for our lives if we trust Him.

 

3 Lessons while waiting on God

 Read Ruth 3. 

God's plan began to unfold, but that does not mean those involved could see either when or how those plans would all be accomplished. 

The attraction between Ruth and Boaz changed in this chapter to love and commitment to each other.  Naomi knew that Boaz was a relative of her late husband.  Under the law (see Deuteronomy 25:5-10), childless widow's had certain rights and claims on the rest of her deceased husband's family.  As a near kinsman, Boaz could legally buy back Ruth's deceased husband's property and marry her.  

Naomi's instructions to Ruth in verse 3 for this encounter were to get cleaned up, dressed up, fixed up and go meet him.  However, she was to wait until he had finished his dinner.  Good idea! 

Nothing immoral is suggested here.  He is a godly man.  She has a virtuous reputation (v.10-11).  In this public place with plenty of people around, and as a servant, she warmed his feet as he slept.  No engagement ring was given.  However, spreading the corner of his garment over her symbolized his intent to care for her and protect her.  

The plot thickens.  Boaz revealed to her that there was a kinsman closer than he.  They would have to wait until morning to find out if there would be any future to their love relationship.  Then, Naomi told her to wait (v.18). 

When a friend noticed the great preacher of New England, Phillips Brooks, pacing the floor back and forth, he asked, "What is the trouble"?  To that Brooks replied, "The trouble is that I'm in a hurry, but God isn't!" 

Lessons while you wait.

Lesson #1

Do all you can to make yourself ready to receive the answer to your request and then be prepared to wait for God's timing.

Lesson #2

While waiting, obey God completely and wait with confident faith in Him and His ultimate plan.

Lesson #3

Blessing follows obedience.

"I waited patiently for the LORD; he inclined to me and heard my cry.  He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure.  He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God.  Many will see it and fear, and put their trust in the LORD.  Blessed is the man, who makes the LORD his trust..." (Psalm 40:1-4a) 

The wait will be worth it.

There is hope for Tomorrow

 Read Ruth 2. 

One of the amazing characteristics of the LORD is His omnipresence.  He works in lives of each individual at the same time, fulfilling His plans.  In this chapter, we get to see God work in three people simultaneously.  Verse 3 uses the phrase "she happened to come to the part of the field belonging to Boaz."  It may have seemed to just "happen" to her, but it was no accident.  God was in full control, leading her to the exact spot at the exact time. 

Boaz

-He was a godly and wealthy bachelor.   

-He was kind.  Notice the way treated his employees with a blessing.

-He was respected.  Notice the response of his workers to him. 

-He was attentive.  He spotted Ruth immediately and wanted to know all about her.

-He was a caring and generous man.

-He became a protector for Ruth. 

Naomi

-We learned from chapter one how she felt God was against her (1:13).

-She was bitter because of her sufferings (1:20).

-She knew the LORD but could not process her pain with her faith.

-But notice her words in 2:20.  The light went on regarding God's care and possible plan for her. 

Ruth

-She was an alien in a new land.

-She was willing to work to support herself and her mother-in-law (vv.2, 18).

-She was an attractive woman, even as she worked in the field (v.6).

-She had the reputation of a hard worker (vv.7, 17).

-She was humble in her attitude (v.10).

-She listened and followed wise counsel (vv.22-23). 

Now, all three of them had a spark of hope for their futures.  Suffering and disappointment do not have to mark the end of our hope.  Indeed, our losses may be the very stepping stones that God will use to take us to His place of blessing.

 

Today Matters

 Read Ruth 1. 

In tough times people choose how they will respond.  Some become discouraged and even bitter.  Some throw up their hands and regress in life.  Others make good decisions that set the course for their future.  In this first chapter we see all three of these responses. 

Chapter one is an introduction to three widows.

Naomi lost her husband and both her children.  She wanted to be known as Mara, which means "bitter".  She interpreted her sufferings to mean that God was punishing her.  Naomi knew the LORD but could not yet process her emotional losses. 

Orpah's response to the death of her husband was to go back to her Moabite family.  This also meant that she would return to the worship of the false gods of Moab (v.15).  She married into a family of faith in the LORD but did not personally embrace Him as her own. 

But then there was Ruth.  She suffered the loss of her husband and had no children.  Widows in that culture without other family members to support them were destitute.  However, Ruth's response to her circumstances was to make new commitments that would secure her future, indeed her eternity. 

Verses 16-17 are among the most powerful statements of commitment in all of the scriptures.  This passage has often been used at weddings, but actually it is the vow of a daughter-in-law to her mother-in-law.

1. She committed herself to her mother-in-law.

"...where you go, I will go..."

2. She committed herself to the people of God.

"Your people shall be my people."

3. She committed herself to the LORD.

"...and your God my God." 

Though not of Jewish descent, Ruth had no idea how these choices would bless her life, the life of her mother-in-law, and bring her into the very lineage of Messiah! 

In his book “Today Matters”, Dr. John Maxwell wrote, “The way you live today impacts your tomorrow."  Ruth is a great example of that principle and provides an excellent model for our life decisions today...they matter.

 

The case for spiritual Leadership

 Read Judges 19-21. 

These closing chapters recount one of the saddest times in Israel's history.  The sexual immorality in the tribe of Benjamin at the time takes us back to the story of Sodom.  History is clear that homosexuality is the doom of a culture.  Verse 22 of chapter 19 calls them "worthless".  It is the last straw for God to execute judgment. 

 Human life had lost its value.  A young girl was abusively murdered.  The actions of the Levite, though gruesome, accomplished its intent to rile a nation to take action about the sin.  They rallied in unity (20:11) to "purge evil from Israel" (20:13).  Everyone suffered.  In the end, 25,100 men of Benjamin died. 

The tribe of Benjamin was the smallest of the twelve tribes.  With such great losses of men, in chapter 21 the nation agreed to a plan to maintain the tribal heritage. 

People need spiritual leadership.  God never intended for us to grow and live out our faith in Him by ourselves.  We all need to be taught, to be accountable, and to interact with others as we put the Word of God into practice. 

When the book of Judges repeats the theme "in those days there was no king", it is the dangerous reminder that they had no spiritual leadership.  "Everyone did what was right in his own eyes" (21:25).  In other words, left to ourselves, humans do not naturally lean toward God.  Even our faith is a work of God, the Father.  Jesus said, "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him" (John 6:44). 

We all need the spiritual leadership of God's word, the Holy Spirit's control, and the accountability of a Bible teaching church.

 

In search of the God-factor

 Read Judges 17-18. 

Verse 6 of chapter 17 contains a recurring theme that characterizes the book of Judges and explains the 7 cycles.  "In those days there was no king in Israel.  Everyone did what was right in his own eyes."  The statement should immediately alert us that the account here is historical to the writer and that the time of writing was later when Israel had a king.  The closing chapters of Judges are stories, providing specific examples, that fit into the previous cycles. 

Micah was a thief.  He stole silver from his mother.  When she pronounced a curse on the one who took her money, Micah confessed and gave it back to her.  In her warped thinking, she decided to counter the stated curse she had put on her son with some sort of religious good work.  Obviously influenced by the pagan culture around her, she took part of the silver to make an idol to worship as her god.  Such an act was an abomination to the LORD.  If that were not enough, they hired their own private priest to lead their false worship.  Sadly, this was one of Moses' grandsons. 

The situation is full of pride and rebellion against the LORD.  They had their own god, their own priest, their own way of worship.  All self-made and had nothing to do with the God of Heaven. 

In chapter 18, even the tribe of Dan lost their spiritual bearings.  They forcibly took Micah's god and his priest as their own.  Then, they conquered the territory that Joshua had allotted to them in the north.  They set up the god they stole as their own and Dan became a center of idolatry. 

Insights:

Louis Giglio once said, "If you have to carry your god on your shoulder, you need a new god." 

It is pride and rebellion in the heart and mind of finite human beings that think they are smarter than the Infinite Creator.  Humans left to themselves will always put their trust in something else to "bless" them. 

Instead of worshipping and praying to nature, the stars, and man-made objects, let us worship the One who created and sustains all that we see, including ourselves.  As scientists in Europe are searching for the God-factor in the mass of the universe, the Apostle Paul knew the answer a long time ago.  Concerning Jesus, he wrote, "...all things were created through him and for him.  And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together."  (Colossians 1:16b-17)

 

5 Insights from the life of Samson

 Read Judges 15-16. 

Samson was an answer to prayer and prophecy at his birth.  Godly parents raised him.  Even before his birth, he had been dedicated to the LORD in a Nazarite vow for life.  God used him to avenge and overthrow the oppression of the Philistines.  Indeed, he "judged Israel twenty years" (16:31).  Yet, his lack of self-discipline, his pride, and his view of women cost him dearly. 

Physically, no man or any group of men could match him.  But he was totally oblivious to the cunning of immoral women.  He used women, toyed with them, and gave into them. 

Many have missed the fact that the blessing of his strength came from God, not muscle or long hair.  Time and time again, he neglected his spiritual health and strength.  The saddest words concerning Samson is found in 16:20-"...he did not know that the LORD had left him."  

Here are five insights for all to learn from Samson's life.

1. Godly parents do not guarantee godly children.  We all, as individuals, must give an account to the LORD for our own responses to Him.  "So then each of us will give an account of himself to God." (Romans 14:12) 

2. We all were designed for a life dedicated to God.  "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."  (Ephesians 2:10) 

3. We all need protection from our vulnerabilities.  "Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall."  (1 Corinthians 10:12) 

4. God will get glory from a life--one way or another.  "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."  (1 Corinthians 10:31)  

5. Life is about fulfilling the purposes of God in our generation.  "For David, after he had served the purpose of God in his own generation, fell asleep and was laid with his fathers and saw corruption."  (Acts 13:36)

 

It's my life. I'll do what I want.

 Read Judges 14. 

During this time the nation of Israel lived under the oppressive rule of the Philistines.  In response, God chose a man named Samson to liberate His people.  From Samson's early years, "the Spirit of the LORD began to stir him" (13:25).  The angel of the LORD gave his parents instructions on how to raise him.  Samson would be under the commitments of a Nazarite (not Nazarene).  He was not to drink any alcohol, be strict about what he ate, and not to cut his hair.  In the teaching from Moses, this was a voluntary vow for a period time to separate oneself for a special service to God.  The Bible provides instances where such a vow was made by the parents for the life of their child.  Such was the case with Samson, Samuel, and John the Baptist. 

Samson is renowned for his physical strength.  But he was a man who violated his vow repeatedly with moral weaknesses.  Instead of seeking a godly woman for a wife from Israel, he lusted after a Philistine woman who did not worship the LORD.  The Mosaic Law prohibited such a union.  He would not listen to God's word, nor the wisdom and objections of his parents.  Why?  Because "she is right in my eyes" (14:3). 

Samson's physical strength caused him to believe he was invincible.  This type of pride always leads to a downfall.  At the celebration leading up to the marriage, his wife-to-be demonstrated her loyalty to her own people, not Samson.  Her heart was full of deceit.  It cost thirty men their lives and the woman was given to another.  Verse 4 is not an endorsement by God of Samson's sin.  Rather, God had a bigger plan to unfold and overthrow the Philistines.  He would use this occasion to begin the process. 

Insights from a bad example:

1. Concerning Parents.

"Children obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.  Honor your father and mother (this is the first commandment with a promise) that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land." (Ephesians 6:1-3)  When a child grows to be an adult, they are responsible for their own behavior before the Lord.  While they may not be under the obedience of parents, for all-time they are to honor their parents. 

2. Concerning Temptations.

The first sin was one prompted by the lust of the eyes.  Eve "saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes..." (Genesis 3:6).  1 John 2:16 warns us, "For all that is in the world-the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions-is not from the Father but is from the world." 

3. Concerning Sin.

The desire to live life according to one's own wishes is rebellion against God's ownership.  It is this very sin that sent Jesus to die on the cross.  "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all" (Isaiah 53:6) 

4. Concerning God.

The LORD is in control, even when a person sins.  No matter what, He uses every situation in our lives for His glory and His purposes.  "Surely the wrath of man shall praise you" (Psalm 76:10.  "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28).

 

5 evidences of godly Character

 Read Judges 13. 

The sixth cycle began when the next generation "did what was evil in the sight of the LORD".  This time God used the Philistines to oppress them for forty years. 

Yet, even in the worst of times, there were always those who loved and served the LORD.  Such were Manoah and his wife.  Though most of the tribe of Dan had moved north, these two remained in the inherited land allotted to their family by Joshua.  They were a faithful couple who had no children.  Then, the angel of the LORD appeared to foretell of the birth of their son. 

This is at least the fourth appearance of the angel of the LORD in first thirteen chapters of Judges.  Who is this "angel"?  Though he looks like a man (v.6 and v.10) and Manoah did not realize at first that he was the angel of the LORD (v.16), the identity is obvious from previous mentions from Genesis to here.  Nowhere is it clearer than here.

1. Very awesome appearance (v.6).  The word awesome is so overused in American slang that it has nearly lost its meaning.  To stand in awe involves the emotions of fear and reverence.  It is a rightful response to God and His word.

2. His name is "secret" (KJV), "wonderful" (ESV) (v.18).  

3. They had seen God (v.22).  This was no one else than a preincarnate appearance of Jesus Himself. 

We learn much about the spiritual character of Manoah and his wife.

1. They recognized the presence of God.

2. They believed the message from God.

3. They prayed to God for more understanding of His word, especially His teaching to raise their child. (v.8 and v.12)

4. They offered sacrifices to "the one who works wonders." (v.19)

5. The LORD blessed them. (v.24) 

May those five things be true of us today.

 

Hope for marginalized People

 Read Judges 10:6-12. 

The sixth cycle of the book began as the next generation of people turned from the LORD to serve all the false gods of the cultures around them.  As a result, the LORD "sold them" to the Philistines and Ammonites for eighteen years.  In their distress, Israel cried out to God for help, confessing their sin.  God gave them a bit of a history lesson of His faithfulness and what He had done for them in the past.  He even mocked them by saying, "Why don't you go ask those other gods to help you?"  The people responded by getting rid of the vain things they had worshipped. 

Notice that the LORD did not immediately overthrow their enemies.  Instead, the Ammonites decided to fight against Gilead.  The people needed a man to lead them in battle.  Now we meet Jephthah. 

Jephthah was evidently from a prominent family.  The city was named after his father, Gilead.  But his mother was a prostitute and so the rest of the family rejected him.  Even the leaders of the city hated him (v.7).  As an outcast, he left town.  Jephthah was also a leader.  Other marginalized and outcast men followed him.  However, the most important note about him was that he had a personal relationship with the LORD (v.11). 

The reason the Ammonites gave for the invasion was that Israel had taken their land.  Jephthah knew the history and retold it to them.  Their forefathers had mistreated the nation of Israel and God gave them the land.  As a steward, Jephthah proclaimed, "All that the LORD our God has dispossessed before us, we will possess." (11:24)  He fully depended on the LORD as he entered into battle (11:27).  That truly was all he needed to win.  But in the emotion of the moment, Jephthah made a foolish vow.  With his daughter being an only child, this meant he would have no descendants.  If that heartbreak was not enough, the tribe of Ephraim angrily expressed their offense that they were not included in the fight against the Ammonites.  So, a small civil war broke out. 

Jephthah served as Israel's judge for six years.  Three minor judges followed him.  Ibzan led the nation for seven years; Elon for ten, and Abdon for eight.  So, Israel experienced a total of thirty-one years of peace. 

Personal insights for us all:

1. It does not matter where you came from.  What matters is where you are going.  My friend Dr. Crawford Loritts often says, "Don't let your past define you." 

2. We are responsible for our own reputation.  Our character and conduct, good or bad, is no one else's fault or responsibility. 

3. Our future is determined by our personal relationship with the Living God and our stewardship of all that He has given to us. 

4. If we are faithful, there will come a time when we will be needed for an opportunity God had planned for us all along. 

5. We must guard our hearts and minds when we are at an emotional extreme, high or low.  That is when most people make their worst decisions. 

6. Whenever a person serves God's purpose faithfully, there will always be those who are offended.  Our goal is not to strive for the impossible task of pleasing everyone.  There is One is heaven we absolutely must please.  "And whatever we ask we receive from him, because we keep his commandments and do what pleases him." (1 John 3:22)    

 

 

God's response to evil Leaders

 Read Judges 9-10:5. 

Cycle number five describes a national implosion.  There were no outside nations oppressing them in this time period.  They fought against each other. 

As good as Gideon was, he left a terrible legacy.  He had many wives who gave birth to seventy sons.  Then, there was at least one concubine with whom he fathered another son.  That son's name was Abimelech.  When Gideon died, it appears that he left a family and a nation with neither defined nor spiritual leadership. 

This next generation did not remember the LORD and what He had done for them.  In this void, Abimelech, with selfish ambition, rose to take power and control of Israel.  He first killed all but one of Gideon's sons and ruled for three years.  Jotham, the youngest son of Gideon, escaped.  He then went to Shechem to preach a prophetic message to the city leaders. 

When challenged by what seems to be an even more godless man (Gaal), civil war broke out.  Abimelech proved to be ruthless in putting down all those who opposed him.  He must have thought himself to be invincible in personally leading the attacks.    Any warrior in those days would know the dangers of rushing a wall or tower.  No king would have been fighting on the front line.  It cost him his life. 

A couple of minor judges followed, providing national leadership and peace for a total of forty-five years. 

Insights:

1. When a people have an evil leader, everyone suffers.

2. In the worst of times, God has His people who can and will deliver His word.

3. The dissension was instigated by God in order to overthrow Abimelech. (9:23)

4. Though an unnamed woman was credited with mortally wounding him, it was God who "returned the evil of Abimelech, which he committed against his father in killing his seventy brothers." (9:56)

5. "And God also made all the evil of the men of Shechem return on their heads." (9:57) 

God's justice may seem slow to us but in His time He will right every wrong.  No one gets away with sin. 

God's hand is at work; even using evil people do accomplish His will. 

God's goal is to bring people back to worship Him so they may experience righteousness and peace.

 

When things look Impossible

 Read Judges 7-8. 

Cycle number four continues as Gideon had now become a leader of an army that would deliver Israel from the Midianites.  In what seems to be a strange assessment, God told Gideon he had too many soldiers for the battle.  The reason the LORD gave was that with so many the army could take the credit for the victory. 

In the winnowing process, Gideon's army was reduced from 32,000 to just 300 men.  It was a humanly impossible assignment.  So, when these few men conquered Midian, everyone would know it was God's power and give glory only Him. 

When Gideon's army blew the trumpets and flashed their lamps, the army of Midian that could not be numbered (7:12) thought they were surrounded!  120,000 of the enemy died (8:10).  Though exhausted, Gideon and his men chased the Midianites clear across the Jordan.  Those who refused to support them along the way paid so with their lives.  Thus, God relieved the nation of its oppression and established Gideon's national leadership. 

The nation asked him to "rule over us" (8:22).  Notice his humility and submission to the LORD.  Truly, God was the ultimate ruler over the nation.  Gideon provided a leadership of peace for the next forty years. 

Two insights for today:

1. God wants to work in situations thought impossible so He alone will get the credit.

Jesus said, "What is impossible with men is possible with God." (Luke 18:27) 

2. God wants to use people who know they do not have what it takes to get the job done but are willing to trust God to accomplish His work through them.

The Apostle Paul wrote, "We have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us." (2Corinthians 4:7)

 

When God does not answer our Questions

 Read Judges 6. 

Cycle number four begins in the first verse.  The next generation of Israelites "did what was evil" and "the LORD gave them into the hand of Midian seven years."  The people then cried out for help.  But this time we are given much more detail of what took place.  First, God sent an unnamed prophet to point out the sin of the nation.  Second, "the angel of the LORD" appeared.  From the previous reference in Judges 2:1, this is none other than a pre-incarnate appearance of the Son of God Himself.  We are told He sat under a tree, waiting for the encounter with Gideon. 

Gideon was beating out the wheat in a winepress.  That meant he was hiding from the enemy and that the harvest must have been very small.  Yet, in a bit of prophetic humor the LORD called him a mighty man of valor.  Truthfully, Gideon was anything but such a man. 

Gideon's questions show either a lack of understanding or the common responses of one who is suffering.  Why has this happened to us?  Where is God when we need Him? 

Notice that the LORD answered neither question.  He simply called Gideon to go save Israel from the Midianites.  In response, Gideon poured out his inadequacies.  Then, the LORD said, "But I will be with you." (v.16)  One person with God is a majority every time.  The LORD chose to demonstrate His power to Gideon as proof of who He was and assurance of the victory ahead. 

There were no more questions from Gideon at this point.  Once he realized God's call on his life, God's presence with him, and God's power available to him, Gideon worshipped and obeyed.  When he personally took the bold step of destroying the false gods that had been erected, God protected him and clothed his leadership with the Spirit of God (v.34). 

The fleece test Gideon used was not to determine God's will.  He already knew that.  But in his timidity and lack of faith, he wanted the reassurance that the power and presence of God was with him.  

Insights not to miss:

1. When we are suffering loss or harm, rather than seek answers to the questions "why" or "where is God when I need Him", instead seek what God wants you to do.  Seeking answers can be enlightening but all too often drown us in the past and self-pity.  Knowing what God wants us to do and taking right actions will move our lives forward.

2. If it is God's will, then we can count on God's presence and power to go before us.

3. God wants our willingness to obey and worship Him alone.  Nothing will build our faith like doing the will of God.

4. Our future is assured.

 

How God works for our Success

 Read Judges 4-5. 

Cycle number three begins with the very first verse.  After 80 years of peace, Ehud, the judge who delivered them, died.  The new generation left the God who loves them to go their own evil way.  This time the LORD raised up King Jabin of Canaan to conquer and enslave Israel for 20 years.  Then, the people cried out to God for help.  God responded by using Deborah, a prophetess and judge. 

Deborah chose Barak to lead Israel's army in the overthrow of the Canaanites.  Barak's insistence on Deborah going with him was probably for her wise counsel and reassurance of the presence of God.  Barak exercised great faith in taking this assignment and completing it.  He is listed in Faith's Hall of Fame (Hebrews 11:32). 

In her prophecy statement to Barak, she said, "Up!  For this is the day in which the LORD has given Sisera into your hand." (4:14)  The scripture makes it clear that the LORD went before them and caused the Canaanite army to flee.  Sisera escaped and was killed by a woman, Jael.  "So on that day God subdued Jabin the king of Canaan before the people of Israel." (4:23) 

The victory was followed by a long, narrative duet by Deborah and Barak.  Then, the nation enjoyed peace again for 40 years. 

The lessons of the repeating cycles are the same.  God will not allow people to go on indefinitely in sin.  Sin has devastating consequences.  Yet, when sinners abandon their sin to obey the LORD, He faithfully responds with forgiveness and deliverance.  In freeing His people, God has a plan for them and a time for the plan (4:14).  God even goes before His people to clear the way ahead.  But notice they still must do the fighting and pursuing.  He will not do it for them. 

In the duet, we learn some additional take away principles of success.

1. "Leaders took the lead." (5:2a)

Dr. Lee Roberson originally coined the phrase, "Everything rises and falls on leadership."

Olan Hendrix asked, "Have you ever noticed that the bottle neck is always at the top?"

Every nation, organization, church, and family needs godly and/or good leadership to survive.  But leadership is not a position.  It is an active endeavor.  People never achieve all their potential as a group unless someone takes the lead. 

2. "The people offered themselves willingly." (5:2b)

No person can lead anything alone.  A person is not a leader unless someone is following them.  The people within a nation, organization, church, or family have the responsibility to follow godly and/or good leadership.  Concerning the Macedonian believers Paul wrote, "...they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us." (2 Corinthians 8:5)

 

4 insights from bad Examples

 Read Judges 3. 

There are two reasons mentioned here as what God was doing with the nation.  Pagan people groups lived all around them.  First, He was testing them to see if they would reject spiritual corruption and obey His word.  Second, this new generation grew up without knowing how to go to war when needed.  They had to learn both. 

Their moral and spiritual failure of God's tests did not happen overnight.  The compromises took place over time, step by step.

Step 1. They lived among the unbelievers.

Step 2. They intermarried with the unbelievers.

Step 3. They served the pagan gods of the other cultures. 

This, then, began cycle number one in the book.

God was not going to tolerate their disobedience and evil in rejecting Him.  So, He brought King Cushan-rishathaim of Mesopotamia to enslave them for eight years.  The people cried out to God for help and the LORD raised up a godly national leader.  His name was Othniel, the nephew of Caleb.  Note that it was not the leadership of Othniel that delivered them, but "the Spirit of the LORD."  The nation experienced peace for 40 years. 

Cycle number two begins in verse 12.

After 48 years, another generation had grown up who did not desire to live for the LORD.  So, God energized King Eglon of Moab, along with some allies, to conquer and enslave Israel for eighteen years.  Then, the people cried out to God for help and the LORD raised up Ehud to deliver them.  God gave the nation 80 years of peace. 

There are four insights here for us.

1. The power of influence.  All of us need to be fully aware of our surroundings.  God has left believers in this world to influence our culture, not the other way around.  Indeed, those who live for Christ will increasingly find themselves living counter to culture.  We are "in the world but not of the world." 

2. The priority of teaching the next generation.  It is our duty, responsibility, and mission to teach the generations behind us what God's word says and how to put it into practice.  Otherwise, the consequences of shame, loss, and ultimately enslavement are well documented here. 

3. The purpose of accountability.  It has never been the plan of God that one should live without accountability.  Self-reliance is a recipe for disaster.  That is why godly, transparent relationships are crucial to our spiritual growth and maintenance.  Close friendships and/or marriage partner, and Bible teaching churches are core elements to the Christian life. 

4. The primacy of godly leadership.  When people are in need of leadership, the LORD does not raise up a committee.  He does not ask for a majority vote.  He raises up a godly leader, empowered by His spirit, and appropriately accountable.  The book of Judges repeatedly demonstrates that one leader in the power of God can rally and deliver a nation.  

 

What happened to God's Grandchildren?

 Read Judges 2. 

Someone once said, "God does not have any grandchildren."  That could not be clearer than in this chapter.  The first generation coming out of Egypt saw firsthand the miracles of God.  Moses even wrote down the word of God and their commitments so they would not forget.  The second generation benefited as they wandered in the wilderness.  God provided their daily food and needs.  When the second generation came into the land, they saw firsthand God's power and miracles under Joshua's leadership. 

But when Joshua died, "there arose another generation after them who did not know the LORD or the work that he had done for Israel.  And the people of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the LORD and served the Baals." (v.10-11)  This resulted in their loss of God's power in their nation and placed them in "terrible distress." 

In their helplessness, the nation cried out to God for help.  The LORD responded by raising up a new national leader, called a judge.  That was followed by a time of victory and peace.  But as soon as the judge died, the people abandoned God and plunged back into pagan worship.  That was followed by oppression from a neighboring nation, great distress, helplessness, crying out to God, a new judge, and a time of peace. 

This cycle repeats itself 7 times in this book.  Walk Thru the Bible described it this way:

1. Sin-the nation falls into pagan worship.

2. Servitude-the nation suffers under an oppressive enemy.

3. Supplication-the nation cries out to God for help.

4. Salvation-God responds by raising up a new national leader to deliver them.

5. Silence-a time of peace 

In verse 22, God called each generation to a spiritual test to see if they would live according to His word.  Whatever grade the previous generation made on their test did not apply to the next.  

No one can take God's tests for us.  Godly parents do not guarantee godly children.  Parents are commanded to teach their children by precept and by living example (Deuteronomy 6).  But each generation, each person, is responsible and accountable for their own response to God.  The consequences for not listening and abandoning the LORD are devastating.  Great blessing, forgiveness, deliverance, and peace await those who cast their helplessness on Him.

  

When coexistence becomes Sin

 Read Judges 1-2:5. 

Controlling the land and taking possession of it are two different issues.  Joshua led the nation into the land, exercised great power over it, and set the boundaries for the tribes.  But the land was far from being fully occupied by Israel. 

One by one the tribes set out to take the land that God had given to them.  Yet, a half-dozen times we are told that a particular tribe "did not drive out" the inhabitants.  Instead, they worked out a covenant of coexistence.  Most often that meant that those who lived in the land submitted to forced labor. 

While on one hand that may sound like a wise, even merciful, thing to do, it was a direct violation of what God ordered.  The command was clear.  Israel was not to make any agreements with the surrounding peoples.  The reason was not to display military might and power over others.  From the beginning of the conquest, the LORD warned them against spiritual compromise.  The Canaanites had rejected the God of Heaven to worship their multiple man-made idols.  In Genesis 15:16, God told Abraham that his descendants would return and take the land at that time because of the completed sin of the Amorites. 

There can be no compromise or coexistence with sin and false worship.  God is a jealous God and will not share the honor due Him with anyone or anything.  

The good news is that the nation of Israel repented in tears for their disobedience.  Then, they worshipped the LORD. (2:4-5) 

The Apostle Paul wrote that believers in Jesus are the temple of the Holy Spirit.  In stating his case, he quoted Leviticus 26:12 and continued-"God said, I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.  Therefore go out from their midst, and be separate from them, says the Lord, and touch no unclean thing; then I will welcome you, and I will be a father to you and you shall be sons and daughters to me, says the Lord Almighty." (2 Corinthians 6:14-18) 

We must be diligent and vigilant about the spiritual areas of compromise and attempts at coexistence with sin in our lives.

 

A Decisive Message for the Nation

 Read Joshua 24. 

In the previous chapter, Joshua addressed the nation's leaders.  Here in his final words, he spoke to all of Israel.  He began with a history lesson.  It is a walk through the first five books of the Bible.  His message had three parts and then a most interesting back and forth about the challenge. 

1. How God has led us. (vv.1-12)

Notice how Joshua is actually presenting this on behalf of God Himself, "Thus says the LORD."  Beginning with God's call of Abraham, Joshua recounted their family lineage.  Next, he reminded them of the days in Egypt and how God miraculously delivered them.  He mentioned the wilderness wandering and how God gave them victory over enemies along the way.  Then, God brought them into the land and gave it to them, just as he had promised Abraham centuries before. 

2. How God has blessed us. (v.13)

God said, "I gave you a land" with cities they did not build and crops they did not plant.  This was their inheritance from the LORD.  They were to enjoy it all. 

3. How we should respond. (vv.14-28)

Fear the LORD.  This is more than just a reverential awe of the Almighty.  If anything, they should have learned through Israel's journey that God knows how to mete out judgment here and now.  Sin has consequences.  Respect and right responses to what God has made clear is a matter of life and death.  Paul wrote, "Knowing the fear (terror in KJV) of the Lord we persuade others." (2 Corinthians 5:11) 

Serve the LORD.  Joshua said this is to be done "in sincerity and in faithfulness."  Integrity is demonstrated in how we live out what we say we believe.  This is how we demonstrate of our faith.  "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." (1 Corinthians 10:31) 

Incline your heart to the LORD.  Which way are you leaning, toward the LORD or away from Him?  One translation puts it, "make up your mind."  Joshua's challenge to the nation was, "Choose this day whom you will serve." (v.15b) 

His conclusion is the famous quotation, "But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." 

The exchange that followed is a curious one indeed.  The people responded with agreement, "We also will serve the LORD."  Then, the preacher, if you will, said, "You are not able."  The people responded again, "No, but we will serve the LORD."  It was a test to prove the seriousness of their commitment.  Joshua made it a national covenant, wrote it down, and dedicated a monument so they would remember what they promised. 

These are serious reminders for all of us.

 

A message to national Leaders

 Read Joshua 23. 

Nearing the end of his life, Joshua delivered two major addresses.  The first is in this chapter and it is directed to the leaders of Israel.  The speech emphasizes a singular message of national life and death, repeated three times. 

1. How we got here.  (vv.1-8)

Yes, they were on the land.  But the reason they were there was according to God's everlasting covenant-promise to Abraham. 

Yes, they fought the battles to capture the land.  But "it was the LORD your God who has fought for you." (v.3b)

Yes, they controlled the land.  But there remained much left to do in order to actually possess all the land.  For their future they would need to "be very strong to keep and do all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses..." (v.6)  This statement is right out of Joshua 1 and has been his guiding life principle ever since.

Yes, they knew and served the Living God.  But there were many luring, spiritual distractions.  "But you shall cling to the LORD your God." (v.8) 

2. How to protect what we have.  (vv.9-13)

With God on their side, Israel was invincible.  Again, Joshua repeated that it was "God who fights for you." (v.10)

Instead of obedience to God, this time he stated, "Be careful to love the LORD your God." (v.11)

And then came the warning of giving in to the sinful distractions around them that would pollute the nation spiritually.  The first result would be "that the LORD your God will no longer drive out these nations before you." (v.12)  Second, they would suffer, perish, and lose the land. 

3. How to preserve our future.  (vv.14-16)

"Not one word has failed of all the good things that the LORD your God promised concerning you." (v.14)

This was followed by the reminders again of how God has provided and the disaster of sinning against Him. 

The scripture states clearly that God raises up one and puts down another.  Leaders and peoples can become prideful that it was by their own doing that they have come to power.  Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people."  (Proverbs 14:34) 

The take away statements for all of us are:

God is faithful and keeps His promises.

God's people are to cling to Him alone, to be strong, obeying God's word and loving Him. 

There are blessings for obedience and severe consequences with great loss for disobedience.

 

3 keys to handling Misunderstandings

 Read Joshua 16-22. 

Most of this section is the account of how the land was divided among the tribes.  The nation convened at Shiloh and there they set up the Tent of Meeting (The Tabernacle).  Finally, everyone had a place to settle and call their own.  The conclusion of chapter 21 is not to be missed.  Israel fought the battles, but it was God who gave them the victory, peace, and the land by promise.  "Not one word of all the good promises that the LORD had made to the house of Israel had failed; all came to pass." (21:45) 

Two and half of the twelve tribes claimed land on the east side of the Jordan River prior to the crossing.  With the war being over they were free to go home.  At their departure in chapter 22, Joshua charged them strongly "to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways and to keep his commandments and to cling to him and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul." (22:5) 

As the people of Gad, Reuben and the half-tribe of Manasseh came to the Jordan they did not want future generations to think that the separation of a river meant they were not a part of the nation of Israel and the worship of God.  With all the best intentions of unity and spiritual commitment, they built an altar as a monument of remembrance by the riverbank. 

But when the folks back home got wind that these tribes had built their own altar, civil war nearly broke out.  God made it clear that there was only one altar and one place where sacrifices were to be made to Him.  That altar remained in the Tabernacle in Shiloh.  The rest of the nation perceived this well-intentioned act as an extreme violation of their faith and the perhaps the worship of false gods.  Fortunately, cooler heads prevailed before taking military action. 

There are three key principles here for all of us in resolving misunderstandings or offences.

1. Confrontation. (22:10-20)

For this to be effective it must be prepared.  Choose carefully where to meet and when.  This should be as mutually comfortable as possible to have a serious conversation.      Confronting someone with a wrong motive, in a wrong way, or meeting under false pretenses will only worsen the conflict.  It should be seasoned in prayer (lots of it) so that God is control of you, the situation, and the outcome. 

2. Explanation. (22:21-29)

Emotions must be in check so as not to cloud thinking and reasoning.  Wording should be prepared so the inquiry does not get off-track and cause things to be said that will later be regretted.  What to say and not say is crucial to the outcome, but the inquiry must be specific and honest.  Always assume that there may be something you do not know or understand yet.  Ask for the explanation and then listen to their answer without interrupting them.  Listen to their words and their heart. 

3. Reconciliation. (22:30-34)

The legitimate goal of confrontation is restoration.  Before any confrontation, you should know what is needed in order to reconcile the misunderstanding or offence.  God loves reconciliation.  That is why Jesus came to reconcile us to God.  When we are able to reconcile with each other we are putting God's heart and principles into real action. 

"Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness.  Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.  Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." (Galatians 6:1-2)  

 

4 Leadership Lessons from Caleb's Family

 Read Joshua 15. 

The courage and character of Caleb continued into the next generation of leaders in his own family.  As the land was being allotted, Joshua honored Caleb's request from chapter 14 when he said, "Give me this hill country."  He battled and defeated the sons of Anak who occupied that land.  This was the family of so-called giants that frightened the ten unfaithful spies in Numbers 13.  They proved to be no match for an 85 year old man with God on his side. 

With one enemy stronghold left, Caleb offered his daughter in marriage to the man who would complete the victory.  His nephew, Othniel, did the job and won the girl.  Notice Achsah's words of response.  It was a bit uncommon for a woman to speak up like this, but she came by such boldness honestly.  She said words to her father very similar to his words to Joshua, "Give me a blessing...give me also springs of water." 

There are four characteristics of these bold leaders that are worthy of our attention.

1. Vision.  They knew what they wanted.  There was something that they foresaw and it was worth fighting for. 

2. Opportunity.  They recognized the opening of the door for which they had been waiting. 

3. Action.  When the timing was right, they were ready to seize the opportunity. 

4. Dependence.  God gave them strength, resources and victory.  After all, it was what the LORD wanted for them. 

"Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart." (Psalm 37:4)

 

4 Leadership Lessons from Caleb's Family

 Read Joshua 15. 

The courage and character of Caleb continued into the next generation of leaders in his own family.  As the land was being allotted, Joshua honored Caleb's request from chapter 14 when he said, "Give me this hill country."  He battled and defeated the sons of Anak who occupied that land.  This was the family of so-called giants that frightened the ten unfaithful spies in Numbers 13.  They proved to be no match for an 85 year old man with God on his side. 

With one enemy stronghold left, Caleb offered his daughter in marriage to the man who would complete the victory.  His nephew, Othniel, did the job and won the girl.  Notice Achsah's words of response.  It was a bit uncommon for a woman to speak up like this, but she came by such boldness honestly.  She said words to her father very similar to his words to Joshua, "Give me a blessing...give me also springs of water." 

There are four characteristics of these bold leaders that are worthy of our attention.

1. Vision.  They knew what they wanted.  There was something that they foresaw and it was worth fighting for. 

2. Opportunity.  They recognized the opening of the door for which they had been waiting. 

3. Action.  When the timing was right, they were ready to seize the opportunity. 

4. Dependence.  God gave them strength, resources and victory.  After all, it was what the LORD wanted for them. 

"Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart." (Psalm 37:4)

 

One of the greatest unused Resources

 Read Joshua 13-14. 

There is a difference in conquering a territory and possessing it.  Indeed, Joshua’s militarily conquered and controlled the land of Canaan.  However, the nation had not yet made it their home.  God said, "There is still much land to possess." (13:1b) 

It was time to divide up the land among all the tribes and allot to each their covenant inheritance.  Two and a half tribes had requested land on the east side of the Jordan.  The tribe of Levi did not receive a land grant due to their charge to serve the rest of the nation.  

When it came time for Judah to receive their tribal boundaries, one man stepped forward.  Caleb served as one of the original twelve spies in the book of Numbers.  He had seen the land.  When the twelve gave their report to Moses only Joshua and Caleb were faithful in what God wanted done.  The nation rejected God's plan and that initiated the previous forty years of wandering in the wilderness. 

Caleb was forty when asked to be a spy.  Now at eighty-five years of age, his testimony is pure gold.

1. "I wholly followed the LORD my God." (14:8)

2. "I am still as strong today as I was..." (14:11)

3. "So now give me this hill country." (14:12)

4. "I shall drive them out just as the LORD said." (14:12) 

In America, we were brainwashed into thinking that at about age 65 one should quit working and simply retire.  The economic realities of that plan have come as a surprise to most.  The majority may never be able to retire, certainly not as they had once dreamed.  The result of that thinking has been to marginalize older adults who still have plenty of experience and ability left in them. 

Those four statements from Caleb should encourage all who are of a certain age and be a great enlightenment to those who are younger.  Just because a person has some miles on their odometer does not mean either they are through serving God or that God is through using them mightily.  Instead, the Bible has a few things to say about respect for those who are older.  Leaders should be jumping at the opportunities to utilize the experience and knowledge of those who are ahead of them on the road of life. 

Age does not equal maturity or wisdom.  But look for answers to the key elements.

1. Have they/are they wholly following the LORD?

2. Are they able to handle the task?

3. Do they still have dreams and ambition for more, even greater, achievement?

4. Do they have the energy and capacity to move forward with change and new challenges?