A Sick Cycle

Judges 3-5

This was a period of Israel’s history that was very sinful and the intent of God’s people was continually in rebellion against Him. Judges 3 through 5 is a compilation of stories of the Israelites rebelling, then crying out for mercy, and God raising up from among them a judge to deliver them from their circumstances. Though God’s anger raged against the Israelites, he raised up these individuals to restrain evil and guide their day to day lives. Unfortunately, one does not have to read long before there is evidence of the corruption of the Judges themselves. 

It’s easy to point out the foolish and sinful cycle of the ancient Israelites and miss the fact that we sadly fall into the same cycles. Yes, the human judges within these chapters helped the Israelite culture to continue on, but they were completely inept at changing their hearts toward the Lord. Thankfully, God sent a better judge many years later who would die and live again for the purpose of redeeming a people of His own. The victory of this judge over sin and death would erase the guilty verdict of sinful people and provide them a new heart through His Holy Spirit. That judge has a name and His name is Jesus. 

Father God, have mercy upon us, for we acknowledge that we often find ourselves in cycles of unbelief and sinful actions. Convict us of our sin and focus the affection of our hearts upon your Son. Amen. 

Family Connection: The Israelites were in a cycle of making bad choices then begging God to save them from their consequences. Brainstorm good and bad choices in your everyday lives. Discuss how God sent Jesus to save us from our sinful choices, and Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to guide us into making good choices. As a family, pray that the Holy Spirit guides every decision you make.