WHY GIVE UP?

Judges 20:1–48 (NKJV)

 

For three times the people of Israel went up against their brothers the tribe of Benjamin in a bloody civil war that didn’t need to happen. All the people of Israel asked for was the men who raped the Levite’s concubine and left her dead (Judges 19). Two times they were severely trashed by the tribe of Benjamin. It was only on the third occasion that the Lord came to their aid to defeat the Benjamites. Does it mean the Lord was not with them during the two times they were defeated? No. This is because from the beginning of their agenda, they sort the Lord and the Lord gave them a positive feedback, therefore, they were very certain the Lord was with them. In spite of the defeats, the people of Israel never gave up until the battle was won on the third account. What lessons can we draw from this passage.

1. Do not shield evil nor be involved in it. The tribe of Benjamin could have prevented this needless blood shed by giving up those bad nuts. In Proverbs 6:17–18 we read as part of the six things the Lord hates; “hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil”
2. Seek the face of the Lord in all your decisions. For three times the people of Israel enquired of the Lord. Even when they were defeated they still went before God to inquire. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
3. Learn to encourage yourself sometimes. We all feel discourage one way or the other. Most especially when you are very certain this is a win for you or a done deal, only to find yourself disappointed. (1 Samuel 30:6)
4. Don’t give up at the first defeat. Rather, let your prayer and praise maximize even during defeat. The people of Israel, increased the tempo of their prayers. After the second defeat, they fasted, prayed the whole day and offered burnt offerings and fellowship offerings to the Lord (verse 26). Then, they enquired of the Lord whether they should still go up against their brother (the tribe of Benjamin). (Ephesians 6:18)
5. God answers in His own time so learn the virtue of patient. Many of us are always impatient and think we can rush God or squeeze his hands. If you want victory that will last for a lifetime then learn to be patient. Any victory without God’s help is short leaved victory, you will fight that battle again. God’s victory always comes with rest. (Isaiah 55:8-9)
6. Never neglect the assembling of the faithful (Hebrews 10:25). Inasmuch as praying alone brings result, community or corporate prayers are very important most times. We gather to encourage each other, pray for one another and socialize in the Lord. Let us break the habit of attending church only on Sundays. Join church groups that will help you build your faith and attend other church activities to fraternize with other members.
7. Show gratitude at all times. Be thankful to God even when things are not going as expected, and when victory or success or the blessings flow, increase your thanksgiving. In Judges 21:2-4; even though the people of Israel won the battle, they were grieved. This did not stop them from showing gratitude to God for the success. In being thankful, more blessings flow into our lives.

In conclusion, let us remember that God saves at His timing and not ours. He is never too late but brings deliverance at the right time when it is needed most. Ours is to pray and His is to answer at the appointed time.

Shalom and Peace to you.

 

Maurice Luther

Founder, The Christian Migrant Network

thechristianmigrant@gmail.com