My Bible study took me this morning to the Old Testament, to the book of Judges. The study question was basically this: Judah started out so well (in terms of conquering the land). What happened? If you read chapter 1, you'll see that they're doing great until they encounter a people with iron chariots. They allow fear to dominate and make a compromise. This, in spite of God's specific instructions to them: When you go to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid of them, because the LORD your God, who brought you up out of Egypt, will be with you. (Deut 20:1).*
At the beginning of chapter 2, the angel of the Lord confronts them with their disobedience and issues the consequences.
I was convicted. I have, these last two weeks, allowed some disconcerting thoughts to pervade my mind. Like a dark cloud, they had settled over me and I had no desire to chase them away. But this morning, I realized that I was as guilty as the Israelites in not trusting... in not believing... in not completely obeying God. This is not the life of victory that God would have us... would have me live. What is my response?
The clouds have lifted - not by own power or doing (for I know that I am not capable of moving them on my own), but thanks be to God - He is able!
* Scripture taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society.
3 comments:
Edith.......what a very powerful experience for you! And although absolutely and without a doubt, you are not doing this on your own power.......you ARE making the choices to keep reanalyzing and do your best to serve Him!!! And in that you set a fine and motivating example to all of us!!! Many hugs and prayers my friend!!
What a powerful lesson and statement of faith! Also what a lesson for me reminding me that it is important to be reading and studying the Bible! Thank you for sharing and I pray for God's continued blessings of peace for you.
Edith- my prayers and those of my students continue for you and Florian. You are an inspiration and a role model in faith.
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