“In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes.” Judges 21:25
When the people of Israel did not have a leader, their morals went into a steep decline. They quickly began to worship the gods of the nearby nations. They set up idols and built groves for the purpose of worshipping these false gods. Because there was not a strong political structure, they had a difficult time defending themselves against their enemies. Everyone wanted the benefits of peace, but no one was interested in making the necessary provisions for their national defense. God had promised the people that He would protect them and bless them if they would faithfully worship Him, but they forsook His promises and the covenant that God had made with them. Everyone did whatever they thought was right. It is obvious as you read through the book of Judges that it did not work out well for them as a nation.
Sometimes Christians have this same attitude. They are not interested in what God says about how they should live their lives. They are not willing to allow God’s Word to be the standard by which they judge their decisions. In the book of Judges, each time that the people turned back to God, He raised up a leader to deliver them from their enemies and to guide them in the way of righteousness. On a personal level, we can experience the same kind of victory if we are willing to repent of our sin and renew our commitment to live by His Word.
Morning: Judges 19-21
Evening: Luke 7:31-50