|
TRUTH that Judges teaches |
ACTION that Judges invites |
1. Instructions for growing in piety
The Book of Judges emphasizes the need to trust in the presence of GOD and divine resources instead of one's own. Even those talents and abilities that we have inherited are corrupted by sin and must be regenerated by the Holy Spirit to give fruits pleasing to GOD. |
6:14,16
Believe that GOD strengthens those called and commissioned. Trust in his promise to always be at your side.
10:13,14
Hear the LORD's warning: Don't continue leaning on your abilities and human wisdom, lest GOD limit them, instead of allowing his wisdom and power to be manifested through your own. |
2. Keys for a wise life
Wisdom is the ability to apply what we know is true. Therefore, it demands that you discover what GOD wants for your life. The Book of Judges also warns against the supposition that all the guidance that we receive is true. Sanctimoniousness and formal religiousity can cause grave deception. |
6:36-40
Prove and confirm any feeling that GOD is guiding you. Refuse to react compulsively. Don't doubt divine direction; it will make you feel more confident.
17:3
Know that GOD rejects all idolatry, no matter how sincere our religiousness may be. Watch out for religious deception. |
3. Ways to confront sin
Sin forces a constant struggle on us that we must confront, if we don't want to run the risk of falling. When we reject sin, it sometimes appears that the battle has already passed, only to be tempted again and again by the same sin. Sin never disappears, which is why we must be permanently on guard. |
2:2,3
Understand that the sins which we don't confront weaken us and cause our fall.
14:17
Insist on achieving victory in your struggle against sin.
16:4-22
Watch our for the temptations of the world and the flesh. Understand that any accommodation can, with time, weaken you and leave you defenseless, giving evil the occasion to dominate you.
16:28
Repent immediately when sin overcomes you. Trust that GOD faithfully honors all sincere repentance. |
4. Lessons for leaders
GOD's direction is the key to the divine purposes. The Book of Judges underlines the necessity for consecrated leaders who speak with prophetic voices. When that type of leadership is lacking among GOD's people, the people live in disorder, guiding themselves by their own whims and not by the Word and wisdom of the LORD. |
2:10-15
Know that the lack of divine direction makes the people of GOD identify with the world and the judgment of the LORD falls upon them.
17:6; 18:1; 19:1; 21:25
Seek for your ministry to achieve a divine dimension. |
5. Key lessons in the faith
Faith goes beyond trials and obstacles; it knows that GOD is sovereign and uses both things to mold and strengthen us for future battles. Faith also rests in a GOD who is always with us to offer us the necessary answer and satisfy the present need. |
2:22; 3:2-4
Accept adversity and welcome obstacles. Believe that GOD will utilize them to prepare you to be obedient and strengthen you in your spiritual battle.
4:9
Refuse to trust in people because you lack confidence in the presence of GOD. Faith in GOD gives him tribute and allow you to receive what He wants to give you. |
6. Ways to develop humility
The Book of Judges emphasizes the fact that humility is the recognition that every good work and just act that we achieve is a fruit of the action of GOD through us. We sometimes consider humility a demonstration of weakness, when in reality it constitutes an energetic expression of trust and faith in GOD. |
7:1-8
Understand that GOD's spiritual victory doesn't depend on natural abilities and strength. Trust fully in the strength and resources of GOD.
8:27
Refuse to boast of your successes and victories. Know that they can become a stumblingblock for you and other people. |
