Judges 1-11 Daily Bread by Kevin E. Jesmer 2012

INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK OF JUDGES

The book of Judges covers the period of history between the death of Joshua and the establishment of the monarchy. (1375 B.C. to 1055 B.C.), a period of about 325 years recording six periods of oppression and deliverance. Canaan’s biggest threat to Israel was not its army, but its religion. The unholy but attractive lifestyle of the Canaanite proved more dangerous that their military. The Israelites fell into idolatry and cultural pressures and compromised their faith. This happened time after time, one generation after another. Each time, God removed his hand of protection from his people, and allowed hostile neighbors to harass them. This was his love for them to bring them back to worship the Lord God and be set free from idol worship. When the people cried out for help and turned to God in repentance, he raised up a judge, a leader, who would deliver them. And so it can be said that this is a book about sin, its consequences and about God who raises up his leaders to deliver his people at crucial moments. There were twelve men and women whom God worked through. These judges were people. They were not perfect, but they were people of faith and who stood up for the Lord at the critical moment and God used them. As we study the book of Judges, look at these Biblical heroes and learn their dependence on God. Also learn of God’s unlimited grace and mercy as he delivers his people again and again.

 

 

 

Thursday, November 1

 

WHO OF US IS TO GO UP FIRST?

 

Judges 1:1-26

Key Verse 1:1,2

 

1. Judah shall go up first (1-18)

Joshua led the Israelites with faith and courage until each tribe had its allotted portion. Then Joshua died. The Israelites were losing their hold on the land. Each tribe was responsible to complete the conquering of their own region. But who would take the lead? The Lord commanded the tribe of Judah to go up first and encourage the other tribes. Judah fought well and was inclusive of the less fortunate tribes, for the tribe of Judah even allowed Simeon to acquire an inheritance in Israel by offering up a portion of their own inheritance. It is never easy to be the first to do something. It takes faith and courage. It is a very important calling, for others will follow. From Judah’s example we learn what it means to be the first to take action.

 

2. Strongholds in the land. (19-26)

There were stubborn elements, strongholds, left in the land, like the Jebusites and the Canaanites of the plains. The Israelites also did not obey God completely by eliminating the conquered kings. These elements would be a thorn in Israel’s side.

 

Prayer: “Lord, grant me the faith and courage to be the first to proceed in the work of God while not neglecting others around me.”

 

One Word: Go up first

Friday, November 2

 

“I WILL NEVER BREAK MY COVENANT”

 

Judges 1:27-2:10

Key Verse 2:1-2

 

1. They Failed To Root Them Out (1:27- 36)

The Canaanites fought back. The Israelites could only subject them to forced labor. This fell short of what God wanted. Their lives had no peace. Dan was unable to inhabit the valley. When we allow sin to remain it makes strongholds. We try to control sinful elements, but we become spiritually harassed. We must root out all sin from within and dedicate our hearts to the Lord.

 

2. God Never Breaks His Covenant (2:1-10)

At Mount Sinai, God made a binding agreement with his people to make Israel a holy nation. He would protect them and bless them. But Israel needed to love God and obey his laws. Yet, they rejected and disobeyed God. The agreement of protection was no longer in effect, but the promise to make them a priestly nation remained valid. God still wanted the Israelites to be his holy people. The subjected nations would become a snare and a trap. But God would allow this oppression so that his people would repent, return to him and grow as a holy people.

 

Prayer: “Lord, so often I allow sin to remain. This robs me of your peace. I repent and re-dedicate my heart and life to you.”

 

One Word:  Re-dedicate our hearts to the Lord.

Saturday, November 3

 

THE LORD RAISES UP JUDGES

 

Judges 2:11-23

Key Verse 2:16

 

1.  The people turned to idols (11-15)

Despite God’s best efforts, the Israelites forsook the Lord, worshipping the gods of their neighbors. This is unreasonable for God’s grace was abundant. To worship an idol violates two of the Ten Commandments. The idols represented carnal aspects of human nature. Idol worship creates a wall between God and his people. People suffer from idol worship. Yet God wants the best for his people and so he urges us to repent. The best comes when we give our whole hearts to God.

 

2.  The Lord tried his best to help them (16-23)

God could have abandoned his people, but he did not. He raised up judges to save them from their oppressors. God shows the same mercy in our generation. Our oppressors are not other people. They are sin, self and the devil. But God always tries his best to save us from spiritual oppression, by raising up his servants to inspire and encourage with faith and the word of God. God may employ tough love like when he used the Canaanite aggression to test Israel and draw them come back.

 

Prayer: “Lord, my heart is dragged away and enticed by the idols of this land. Thank you for loving me and keeping my heart devote to you.”

 

One Word: God cares and intervenes

Sunday, November 4

 

GOD RAISED UP A DELIVERER, OTHNIEL

 

Judges 3:1-11

Key Verse 3:9

 

1.  God tests his people (1-9)

God allowed the enemies to remain in order to test his people. After Joshua’s conquests a new generation did not experience war nor witness his deliverance. In this case, testing meant giving them an opportunity to demonstrate and experience faith and obedience in God. Will they lean on the arm of flesh, or will they depend on God? In passing the test they would experience the victory that comes by putting all of their faith, hope and trust in God.

 

2.  Othniel and the source of his power (10-11)

    After eight years of suffering, the Israelites cried out to the Lord and he answered by sending Othniel as the first Judge. He was the son of Kenaz, the younger brother of Caleb. He conquered a city and married Caleb’s daughter Achsah. He delivered his countrymen from the Canaanite oppression. Othniel could do so because the Spirit of God came upon him giving an increase of physical, spiritual and mental strength. The Holy Spirit can strengthen you to accomplish the task to which you have been called.

 

Prayer: “Lord, help me to experience your deliverance and your power personally through growing through times of testing.”

 

One Word: Cry out to the Lord for he delivers

Monday, November 5

 

GOD RAISED EHUD AND SHAMGAR

 

Judges 3:12-31

Key Verse 3:15

 

1.  God raised up a deliverer, Ehud (1-30)

Eglon, the Moabite king, conquered Israel for eighteen years. God responded by sending Ehud the second judge. Ehud was courageous and decisive. He used his “left handedness” for the glory of God.In ancient times, being left handed was despised. But God used this to bring about a great victory for he could take Eglon by surprise. God is ready to use our unique qualities and perceived weaknesses, to accomplish his work.  God delights in working through our weaknesses.

 

2.  Shamgar-use what you have for God (31)

In another crisis, God raised up Shamgar. He used what was available, slaying six hundred enemies with an ox goad, which is a ten foot farm implement. One end was an iron spear. The other was a flattened scraper. From Shamgar, we learn that we can do the work of God with what God has made available. None of us have an excuse. We all have a measure of faith, that we can combine with what God has made available, and use it to bring glory to God.

Prayer: “Lord, I am so full of weaknesses but I rejoice in the fact you want to work through them all to accomplish your mission.”

One Word: Combine faith with what you have

Tuesday, November 6

 

GOD WORKS THROUGH TWO WOMEN

 

Judges 4:1-24

Key Verse 4:4

 

1. Deborah, the courageous judge. (1-16)

Deborah held a national leadership position and possessed great qualities that God worked through. She was a judge, a wise leader, a wife, a brave commander, an effectual servant of God. She was a diplomat, an inspiration and one who had prophetic power. She spoke the truth and planted faith. She gave glory to God. The Israelites were sorely oppressed by Jabin. They were helpless and hopeless before his 900 iron chariots. But Deborah stood. She inspired her general to fight with a wise strategy. Under her leadership Israel won a mighty victory.

 

2.  Jael sided with the people of God. (17-24)

Sisera fled towards Jael’s camp. Jael did not side with the Canaanites. She stood with God’s people. When Sisera arrived, exhausted and terrified, Jael hid him. After falling asleep Jael used her wits and courage, and drove a peg into Sisera’s head. She became a national heroine. Our “spiritual” enemies can be defeated, if God’s people will take a firm stand with God and act by faith.

 

Prayer: “Lord, you work through both men and women to accomplish your will. Raise up woman of God who can take the lead.”

 

One Word:  Women of God who inspire a nation

Wednesday, November 7

 

THE SONG OF DEBORAH

 

Judges 5:1-31

Key Verse 5:3

 

1.  The willing volunteers in the land (1-9)

Israel was guilty of idolatry and became beaten down until they were afraid to walk on roads. But all of this was changed. Deborah’s victory song proclaims God’s greatness, giving him credit for the victory. She praises God for his faithfulness and character, for using his mighty power on Israel’s behalf. God also chose new leaders and a woman named Jair, who heard the call of God and willingly volunteered to fight, even though they were ill equipped. This made Deborah “Praise the Lord”.

 

2.  God was with those made a stand (10-31)

The leaders were to take heed of what the common people were speaking of around the wells, and recite the victories of the Lord. No longer would the enemy forces gloat…now Israel would boast of the righteous acts of the Lord and keep telling of it for generations to come.  Four tribes and the citizens of Meroz chose to be neutral. They forfeited experiencing the power of God personally and could not share in these praises.

 

Prayer: “Lord, I was one who was beaten down by my sin. But you delivered me by your great power. May I sing your praises forever.”

 

One Word: Praise the LORD in song.

 

Thursday, November 8

 

THE LORD CALLS GIDEON

 

Judges 6:1-24

Key Verse 6:14

 

1.  Go in the strength you have (1-16)

The Israelites cried out to the Lord. God heard their cries and helped them. First, he sent a prophet to remind them of God’s grace and their calling. Second, he called the fifth judge, Gideon. Initially, Gideon was threshing grain in the wine press, hiding from the Midianites. He questioned the love of God. But yet the angel called him, “mighty warrior”. God saw his potential. Gideon saw his weaknesses but God saw what he could accomplish if he only stepped out in faith and trusted the Lord.

 

1. Gideon makes a decision (17-24)

      Gideon asks for a sign and God obliged. He prepared an offering and God accepted his sacrifice. God understood his need for a sign to fully commit his life. When Gideon experienced God personally, and moved closer to making a commitment to following God’s purpose on his life, he tasted peace and freedom from fear and so he built an altar to the Lord.

 

Prayer: “Lord how often I complain about my situation and dwell on my weaknesses. Help me to see myself as you see me and follow you with what little strength I.”

 

One Word:  Jesus is our strength!

Friday, November 9

 

GIDEON SEEKS GOD’S ENCOURAGEMENT

 

Judges 6:25-40

Key Verse 6:36-37

 

1.  Build a proper kind of altar to the Lord (25-32)

Gideon’s family had corrupted their faith with the religions of nations around them. God told Gideon to irradiate his father’s altar to Baal and then build a proper altar to God. Gideon was afraid, but he obeyed. He tore down the altar and sacrificed his father’s bull. The townspeople wanted Gideon punished, but his father stood up for his son. The people reasoned that Baal would contend with Gideon and let him go. God protected Gideon.

 

2.  Gideon lays out fleece (33-40)

Gideon sought confirmation of the Lord’s presence for himself and for his people and so he proposed a “fleece” test.  He placed fleece on the dry threshing floor that absorbed moisture readily. If the fleece was wet, when the ground was dry, it would be a miracle. To make the confirmation sure, Gideon asked for the fleece to be dry when the ground was wet. We can discover the will of God, through Bible study, prayer, reflection and consultation. But God is willing to strengthen us in many ways.

 

Prayer: “Lord, there are times when I need your encouragement. Thank you for strengthening my faith time and time again.”

 

One Word: God wants to encourage us.

Saturday, November 10

 

THE LORD SAVES: TRUST AND OBEY

 

Judges 7:1-25

Key Verse 7:7

 

1.  300 men of faith (1-8a)

The Lord was concerned about how many would fight and so God set out to find those whom he would work through. The men who cupped water and brought their hands to their mouths, were chosen. They let nothing into their line of vision. They were alert. These are the ones God would use. We must leave room for God to work. When we are weak then God is strong. The other warriors were sent home. They were no less important for they were essential on the home front. God has an important role for us all.

 

2.  God gives victory over fears (8b-25)

God helped Gideon to overcome their fear by planting a promise. God confirmed his promise through the dreams of the enemies. Bread made from barely was considered inferior. Also, tumbling bread should not have enough momentum to bring down a military tent but it did. This was foreshadowing Gideon’s victory. With a heart full of assurance, Gideon took the lead, followed God’s strategy and won.

 

Prayer: “Lord, I am tempted to depend on my own puny abilities, rather than on you. Help me to trust you and set out in faith and reveal your glory.”

 

One Word: Stand firm and see the glory of God

Sunday, November 11

 

GIDEON: A WISE AND DECISIVE LEADER

 

Judges 8:1-21

Key Verse 8:2-3

 

1.  Choose whom you will serve (1-9)

Ephraim’s leaders felt left out because Gideon had not called them to join in the main battle. They angrily confronted him. Gideon was humble. He promoted unity, speaking with the wisdom of God.  He answered with tact and poise. Gideon assured the leaders that their accomplishments were even greater than his own clan. Their “behind the scenes work” had managed to capture the enemy generals, thereby cutting off the leaders from their army.  He averted a civil war. After this incident, Gideon continued on in the strength of the Lord.

2.  Make an executive decision (10-22)                           After the victory, Gideon revealed himself to be a man of decisive action, when dealing with the two captured kings and the citizens of the unsupportive cities. In any great work, someone has to make the difficult choices. As Christians, we will never do what Gideon did, but there will be numerous times where we are called to make executive decisions that require commitment and sacrifice.

Prayer: “Lord, how often I respond with anger and vengeance toward others. Grant me the wisdom that you gave Gideon so that I may promote love and unity among your people.”

One Word: Encouraging words go a long way.

Monday, November 12

 

ONLY GOD CAN RULE OVER US

 

Judges 8:22-35

Key Verse 8:23

 

1.   God is the best King for us.  (22-

God saved them through Gideon’s leadership. The people recognized a good leader in Gideon and wanted him to form a dynasty. It was tempting, but Gideon knew that asking him to rule over them was not right for he knew that God is the best ruler. Raising up judges at critical moments was working. There was no need for a human king at that time. Human leaders are necessary but ultimately we must depend on God’s leadership in our lives, families, ministries and nation. Let the Lord Jesus rule over your heart and life today.

 

2.  Good intentions must be subject God (24-35)

Gideon had some good intentions for the gold that he received as a reward. He intended to make a gold ephod to commemorate the victory. An ephod was a linen garment worn by priests. Gideon made a golden one. His intention was good. But the people began to worship the ephod as an idol and it became a snare to Gideon and his family. In all of our plans and decisions, we must always pray that our “good ideas” may glorify God and promote faith and worship.

 

Prayer: “Lord, I thank you for being my king. Please rule over my life, family and nation.”

 

One Word: May all we do promote God’s kingship

Tuesday, November 13

 

ABIMELECH:A MAN WHO FAILED TO BE GREAT

 

Judges 9:1-21

Key Verse 9:16

 

1.  What it means to be a great leader (1-5)

Abimelech was born of a slave girl. His name means “My father is king”. From the start kingly ambitions were present. Later, he ruled Shechem and wanted to rule all Israel. His desires were born out selfish ambition. Abimelech did not know the heart and mind of God and did not know how to be great. God does not crush our desires to be leaders. But our desires must be done through God, for his glory and for the good of others. (Mk 10:45) True greatness comes from humble and sacrificial service.

 

2.  Jotham’s parable (7-21)

Jotham was the only son to survive. He yelled to the people of Shechem, a parable of what they did and what was to come. Good bushes were Gideon and his sons. They were producing good fruit.  Abimelech was the thorn bush. Such bushes do not bear good fruit. They hurt. This thorn bush spits out fire. The people of Shechem did not try to weed out this thorn bush. They invited it to be their king. God called them to repentance.

 

Prayer: “Lord, thank you for showing me the way to true greatness. It is though humbly serving others. Raise up many great spiritual leaders in our nation.”

 

One Word:  Don’t be a thorn bush

Wednesday, November 14

 

A GOD OF JUSTICE

 

Judges 9:22-57

Key Verse 9:23-24

 

1.  God understands and will take action (22-49)

God could not stand by to see the death of the 69 sons without avenging himself. And so God began to work in the peoples’ hearts by stirring up animosity among them. Another person, just like Abimelech, Gaal, decided that he wanted to take over. He was full of bravado. The people of Shechem did not want to live under the yoke of Abimelech and rebelled. Through a series of events the people were destroyed by the thorn bush, Abimelech. God was at work in order fulfill the prophecy spoken through Jotham’s parable.

 

2.   Be patient and wait on God  (50-57)

Judgment finally came. While trying to carry out more acts of vengeance, a woman threw a large mill stone from the walls of her city. This millstone hit Abimelech, severely wounding him. He asked his armor bearer to kill him, which he did.  Our God is a God of justice. He will not tolerate unjust acts of violence. God hears the cries of his people and he will act in his time. We need to be patient with God and accept his ways of bringing about his justice.

 

Prayer: “Lord, so often I am hurt and seek vengeance. But help to trust you to bring about your perfect justice, in you time.”

 

One Word: God perfect justice.

Thursday, November 15

 

PUT AWAY YOUR FALSE GODS

 

Judges 10:1-18

Key Verse 10:15,16

 

1.  Humble people who served God’s purpose (1-5)

The people suffered greatly from civil strife and cried out to the Lord. God had mercy and raised up Tola. Tola means “grub”. This is not very glorious. But he answered the call and with the help of the Lord, rose to save Israel for 23 years. God does great things through ordinary people. Then God raised up Jair. His name means “Enlightened.” He had 30 sons who were rich leaders of 30 towns that formed a confederation. Jair was influential but was also faithful to serve God’s purpose in his life for 22 years before he died.

 

2.  God’s “tough” love  (6-18)

After two generations, the Israelites forgot the grace of God and forsook worshiping him. God was not pleased. They suffered is described in words like, “he sold them”, shattered, crushed, oppressed, fight, great distress. God loved them with his “tough love.” Practically they needed to confessed their sins, remember the grace of God, realized the folly of their waywardness, and get rid of their idols.  They did this and were filled with a fighting spirit.

 

Prayer: “Lord, thank you for calling the ordinary and raising them up. Help me to serve your purpose in my life.”

 

One Word:  God’s love gives us a new spirit.

Friday, November 16

 

THE REJECTED IS ACTUALLY GOD’S CHOSEN

 

Judges 11:1-28

Key Verse 11:8

 

1.    Don’t let your prejudices blind you (1-11)

Jephthah was a warrior…a natural leader. His mother was a prostitute. As a result he was not respected by his ½ siblings who drove him away. He was despised and rejected. Despite of his brothers’ rejection, God called Jephthah to his service through a national crisis. The elders tried to make things right, humbling themselves to ask help. When he reminded them of their unjust treatment, they did not argue but accepted his terms. Jephthah returned to lead his people. We must be careful to never reject the one God has chosen.

 

2.   Empowered by the Spirit of God (12-28)

Jephthah, inspired and empowered by the Spirit of God initiated contact with the enemy.  He was not fearful nor did he hesitate. When the Ammonites claimed the land was theirs, Jephthah fired back with the history of God. He pitted the God of the Bible against their false god. This boldness and wisdom came from the Spirit of the Lord. God was leading his chosen one.

 

Prayer: “Lord, I let my own prejudices and fixed ideas keep me from seeing those whom you are trying to work through. Open my eyes to see you will and support your work.”

 

One Word: Have eyes to see what God is doing

Saturday, November 17

 

A VERY UNNECESSARY AND FOOLISH VOW

 

Judges 11:29-40

Key Verse 11:32

 

1.  He fought with passionate zeal (29-33)

Filled with the Spirit of God, Jephthah began the assault on the Ammonites. He was decisive, courageous and ready to fight for the glory of God. In his passion, he hastily made a vow. Though foolish, it did show his commitment. The Lord worked through him and gave the Gileadites a great victory. When God and his people support the one whom God raises up there is great victory.

 

1. Know what God requires (34-40)

Jephthah made a painfully foolish oath which brought tragedy to his life and family. God never expected such a vow. He did know the mercy of God, for he could repent of making the vow. His vow was contrived from false religious ideas. Whether he sacrificed his daughter or committed her to a monastic life, it was not part of worshipping the God. His false ideas caused sorrow. We need to study the Bible deeply, learn God’s heart, finding out what our God requires and walk humbly before him. Then there will be joy and victory instead.

 

Prayer: “Lord, I need to know your heart. I need to know what it means to follow you. Keep me from false ideas about worship that only brings sorrow.”

 

One Word:  Learn the heart of God and how to please hm.