We have started our new L.I.F.E. Lessons Bible Study, and I have decided to bring the contents of our study into our devotional time, as well. We are following a six-week Bible Study by Katie M. Reid entitled, “God, What Do I Do?” This study is based on the Book of Judges, Chapters 1-5, and we are digging into what these lessons teach us about making wise decisions in uncertain times.
In our passage for today, we will continue with chapter 1; our focus is “God, What Do I Do When You Speak to Me?”
We can all try to reason our way out of obedience to God. It is for this reason our minds must be renewed so we can identify the will of God (Romans 12:2). Maybe we feel like we don’t have the time, energy, or resources to follow through, but is that the truth if we believe God is our strength and Provider?
When the tribes of Judah and Simeon did not face the “iron chariots” and carry out the will of God, their example set a precedent for the other tribes. They did not ask God how to handle the battle with “iron chariots,” so they leaned on their own understanding and disobeyed God. They were unable to possess the place God had promised them. Was that God’s fault? No, but many people who fail to obey God still blame Him.
In our passage today, we see clearly the problem with failing to do what God has directed. The Jebusites were pagan worshipers who, at times, offered child sacrifice, and they remained in the land. That meant the following generations would be influenced by the Jebusites and the detestable acts they did for their gods (Deuteronomy 20:16-18). Think about this for a minute: we are all facing the consequences of Adam and Eve’s sin against God. The animosity in the Middle East between the descendants of Isaac and Ishmael is based on Abraham and Sarah not following God’s commands. We must carefully steward our gift of influence.
Our obedience or lack thereof not only affects us but also impacts those around us, including future generations. However, the obedience of One god-man, Jesus the Christ, made all the difference for us. Through Jesus, we can receive the forgiveness of our sins, as well as be guided into Truth-Living by the power of His Spirit. Don’t underestimate the power of one person’s obedience and the power of a changed life by Christ! What a Gift!
Truth: When God speaks to you, decide to obey God completely, not halfway.
Judges 1:21-26 NLT
21 The tribe of Benjamin, however, failed to drive out the Jebusites, who were living in Jerusalem. So to this day the Jebusites live in Jerusalem among the people of Benjamin.
22 The descendants of Joseph attacked the town of Bethel, and the Lord was with them. 23 They sent men to scout out Bethel (formerly known as Luz). 24 They confronted a man coming out of the town and said to him, “Show us a way into the town, and we will have mercy on you.” 25 So he showed them a way in, and they killed everyone in the town except that man and his family. 26 Later the man moved to the land of the Hittites, where he built a town. He named it Luz, which is its name to this day.
Prayer: Lord, when you speak to us, help us to act quickly in obedience before we start thinking too long. Please continue to renew our minds and give us righteous thoughts, ones that promote godly living as a way to glorify You. Thank You for our lesson today, because it reminds us that temporary obedience is still disobedience. In Jesus’ name. Amen.