This Month’s Reading Plan at a Glance: April
A Merciful Judge
I am so thankful for all of the examples God has given us of His grace and mercy. We’re starting the book of Judges in April and throughout it we’ll see the utter failure of Israel in contrast to the persistent grace of God.
Here’s a road map to keep us on track…Joshua died, but while the elders who Joshua appointed were still alive, the people enjoyed rest and God’s blessings (Josh 24:31). However, after those men died “Everyone did what was right in his own eyes.”
Israel was full of sin and just like God warned; they were being overrun by their enemies (Josh 23:15). Israel felt the discomfort of their situation and cried out to God. Because God is good and loves His people, He heard their cries and raised up 15 judges, 13 of which are found here in the book of Judges. God used these fascinating 14 men and 1 brave woman to deliver Israel from their surrounding enemies and to speak the truth to His wayward people.
Now these judges didn't all come on the scene at once. Israel set quite the pattern of being saved, backsliding and needing saved again. But praise God…
The LORD is merciful and gracious, Slow to anger, and abounding in mercy. Psalm 103:8
The book of Judges records 7 separate seasons of Israel’s backsliding. As a result, Israel suffered 7 separate times of oppression; the consequences of their sin. But, just as many times as they failed, God delivered! We’ll see God use these Judges in mighty ways and save Israel through 7 separate amazing deliverances.
What a precious Savior we have. God is never changing. Just as He showed grace and mercy to His people then, we are His children and He is gracious and merciful to us!
…But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more. Romans 5:20
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
Let’s dig into God’s Word and see His abundant love as He not only disciplines, but delivers.
by Sharon Kaselonis / All rights reserved ©
Read along with Jesus, Day by Day as we journey through the Bible in Chronological order, seeing Jesus on every page.