April 13

April 13

Judges Origin -- The days of the judges & the cycle of sin/judgment/prayer/deliverance.

Today's Readings:

Reading 1: Judges 1

Reading 2: Judges 2

Reading 3: Judges 21:25

Have you ever heard the saying "It's a test!"? Sure you have! Tests are very valuable because they show us what we have mastered, as well as what we have not. Sometimes tests show us how far we have drifted from a course we have been following, and that is the theme of the Book of Judges. Israel has been set a course: "As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord." But they keep drifting away from it, failing the test.

The cycle of test and failure is not the only available option: they could learn from their mistakes, repent for their self-centeredness, and pass the test next time. But that is not the path they choose. So God sends judges to test them, call them back to their purpose, and restore their direction. Between judges, they turn back to their own ways, just as we often do when left to our own devices. The final verse of Judges is an indictment of us all: "all the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes."

This is why we need God's Word (to show us the way) and God's people (to help us stay on course). Who has God placed in your life to help you in this way? Why not thank them today, and agree with them that together you will serve the Lord?

Have a great day!

Mark.