But when the Israelites cried out to the Lord, the Lord raised up a deliverer for the Israelites, who delivered them, Othniel son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother. The spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he judged Israel; he went out to war, and the Lord gave King Cushan-rishathaim of Aram into his hand; and his hand prevailed over Cushan-rishathaim. So the land had rest forty years. Then Othniel son of Kenaz died. Judges 3: 9-11 NRSV
Besides the pattern of the relationship between God and the Israelites, there is also something to be observed about the relationship between God and each judge.
God raises up the judge as deliverer.
The spirit of the Lord comes upon the judge.
God gives the judge victory.
Because of God's intervention, the land has a period of peace.
So often I take things on without waiting for God's nudge, spirit or blessing. Why wait for God's help when I am capable of handling things myself?
But if I look at Judges, the outcome is so much better for longer periods of time if I wait upon God's call, God's direction, God's Spirit and God's intervention.
Only God can give true, lasting victory.
God, help me to wait for you. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Question of the day: Do you wait for God or go ahead and do it yourself?
Copyright 2009 Amelia G. Sims
