March 26, 2020: SOAP #3766:  Judges 1-3; 1Corinthians 12

Scripture:  Judges (NIV) 3:7 The Israelites did evil in the eyes of the LORD; they forgot the LORD their God and served the Baals and the Asherahs. 8 The anger of the LORD burned against Israel so that he sold them into the hands of Cushan-Rishathaim king of Aram Naharaim, to whom the Israelites were subject for eight years.

Observation:  Here we see God acting according to His character.  A Holy God keeps His promises!  He had warned them about following the sinful ways of the people living in Canaan.  Now that they had taken possession of the country, they even worshipped the gods of the Canaanites!   Of course, God became angry!  Of course, God kept His promise to punish His people.  But notice the very next verse…

Scripture:  Judges (NIV) 3:9 But when they cried out to the LORD, he raised up for them a deliverer, Othniel son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother, who saved them.

Observation:  Here we see God acting according to His character.  A Loving God forgives His people when they repent!  He delivers them from what they deserved!

Application:   It is good for me to remember that God is both Holy and Loving.  I should not be surprised when He punishes me for sin.  I should be quick to repent when I have sinned.  I should not be surprised when He forgives me.  I should live a life of respect for my Holy God and of thanksgiving for my Loving God.

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, I do not deserve your grace and mercy.  Thank you for your great kindness to me.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!