Judges 1:1-2:9; Luke 21:29-22:13; Psalm 90:1-91:16; Proverbs 13:24-25
God promises to be a shield and protector for those who are faithful to Him. What happens when we, through our disobedience, turn away from Him? Think of it like this: Walking in the favor of God is like being under an umbrella. As long as we stay under the umbrella, we stay dry. As the umbrella moves, we move with it. But, if through our disobedience, we walk away from the umbrella then we will get wet.
Joshua had given Israel very clear instructions about how they were to handle the Promised Land. He laid out the consequences for their disobedience and the rewards for their obedience. In light of all this, they vow to remain true to God. It did not take long for them to disregard the instructions of the Lord and go their own way.
After you made a decision to follow Jesus, the next crucial decision will be who will lead your life. If you give Jesus permission to lead your life, you will walk in the fullness of God’s promises. If not, then you will get wet repeatedly. Israel’s disobedience caused a strong reaction from God: “So now I declare that I will no longer drive out the people living in your land. They will be thorns in your sides, and their gods will be a constant temptation to you.” (Judges 2:3)
They lost God’s help! How sad it is to go through life in our own strength when we have access to supernatural power. Remember this: “Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” Stay under His covering through your obedience.
Tomorrow’s Reading: Judges 2:10-3:31; Luke 22:14-34; Psalm 92:1-93:5; Proverbs 14:1-2