Israelites became inconsistent with God after the death of Joshua, despite several judges who attempted to call them to order. They kept their sinful routines until God was fed up, and he punished them. He withdrew his protection from them and allowed them to suffer. Therefore, the enemies pounded on them until they repented. They eventually realized their mistakes and cried to God for help. Israelites lamented and said,
“We have sinned against you because we have both forsaken our God and served the Baals!” So the Lord said to the children of Israel, “Did I not deliver you from the Egyptians and from the Amorites and from the people of Ammon and from the Philistines? Also the Sidonians and Amalekites and Maonites oppressed you; and you cried out to me, and I delivered you from their hand. Yet you have forsaken me and served other gods. Therefore I will deliver you no more. “Go and cry out to the gods which you have chosen; let them deliver you in your time of distress.” And the children of Israel said to the Lord, “We have sinned! Do to us whatever seems best to you; only deliver us this day, we pray.” (Judges 10:10-15).
However, God decided to show kindness to his children; he forgave their sins, and he restored them.
Lesson:
We Christians are God’s apple eyes, and we enjoy his benefits greatly. Meanwhile, our heavenly Father will not be satisfied if we entertain sinful habits. He may lessen his benefits in our lives until we repent from our sins. Therefore, all believers are challenged to faithfully walk with God, so that we can enjoy his measureless grace and goodness.
Prayer:
Dear God, I have decided to faithfully serve you. I repent from my sins, and I am
completely turning my back against sinful habits. Henceforth, I will make you happy by living an acceptable life before you. Please give me the grace to keep my promises, and let me receive your benefits. For in the name of Jesus Christ, I make my requests. Amen.
