April 4, 2013 (Judges 19-21; 2 Corinthians 4)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “In those days Israel had no king; all the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes.” Judges 21:25 NLT
Observation: Judges 19-21 records a horrible account of how sinful people become without leadership. Israel had no king to guide them and they all did what was right in their own eyes. They committed heinous acts of unbelievable proportions and these actions led them to war that killed thousands of people. Judges 19:22-30 shows just how corrupt the people had become. Not only were the troublemakers evil, the Levite and the old man were cowards! Somehow it seemed right in their own eyes to give the woman over to be mistreated and murdered rather than fight for her and surrender their own lives for her sake if necessary. When God is forsaken all sorts of evil will be manifested.
Application: A Nation, or a person, that does not look to God for guidance is capable of committing all sorts of evil actions. Our land is filled with murder and violence just like that described in Judges 19-21. These evils exist because many have no king leading them so they do what is right in their own eyes. Man, left on his own, would destroy himself in a matter of moments. It’s only the presence of the Holy Spirit that keeps this from unfolding at this time. We have a King to guide us, His name is Jesus! Jesus is King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He can, and will, guide us into all truths. If we follow Him, He will protect us from our enemies as well as ourselves!
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for being my King! Thank You for the forgiveness You offer those that will repent and submit to You as King and Lord. Teach me Your ways Lord. Provide understanding and wisdom. Fill me with courage and obedience to Your will and Word. Thank You for the grace and mercy that provide and protect me everyday, in Jesus name, Amen!