I read the first 9 chapters of Judges this morning. I found it interesting that even in the midst of Israel’s constant disobedience, God had mercy and sent these judges who were strong men and women that delivered Israel from their tormentors. Israel would be in captivity for 8 years, and then have 20 years or so of peace, 16 years, then 40 years of peace, etc.
It is easy to read the history and make a judgment against the (stupid) people who keep returning to their sin immediately after their leader dies… until I remember how often my mind or actions can come off of what God has me doing and onto my own appetites or agenda. How quickly we forget to keep doing the last thing God told us to do, so his favor can stay upon us.
I think I would like to be one of these types of people. One on whom the Lord’s favor rests, who provides strength and conviction to cause others to return to freedom and obedience that brings on the favor of God.
It would be cool to kill 600 bad guys with the jawbone of a donkey, have folks give me 43 lbs of gold just to say thanks, and have a whole bunch of wives and 70 sons, but just to be one who doesn’t return to my sin so quickly is my goal for today.