Topic: God is Always Faithful

In Judges 2:16-23, the human author points out the compassionate character of God by showing His unwavering faithfulness through keeping His covenant promises.

God is not distant or indifferent. He is deeply involved in the lives of His people. He hears their cries, He sees their suffering and in His great mercy, He raises up judges to deliver them from their oppressors. God is intimately concerned with the wellbeing of His people, moved by their distress and takes action to alleviate their suffering.

Despite the repeated disobedience of His people, God continues to extend His mercy and grace. Even when they turn away from Him, even when they worship other gods, He does not abandon them. Instead, He patiently waits for them to return to Him, ready to forgive and restore. This is a God who is not quick to anger, but slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.

Despite the Israelites' repeated disobedience and idolatry, God remains true to His covenant. He raises up judges to deliver them from their oppressors, a testament to His unwavering commitment to His people.

The first instance of this is seen in verse 16, where it is written, "Then the Lord raised up judges, who saved them out of the hands of these raiders." God does not abandon His people to His enemies, even as they are rightfully bringing judgment upon them.

We see this further in verse 18, "Whenever the Lord raised up a judge for them, He was with the judge and saved them out of the hands of their enemies as long as the judge lived." Here, God's faithfulness is not only seen in His raising up of judges but also in His presence with these judges. He does not merely send them out on their own. He accompanies them, ensuring their success. This is yet another testament to God's faithfulness to His covenant.

In the book of Judges, we see a recurring theme: the Lord rescues His people. Time and again, when the Israelites found themselves in dire straits, God stepped in to provide a way out. This is not just a historical fact; it's a spiritual principle that continues to hold true today. God, in His infinite wisdom and boundless love, is always ready to come to our aid. He is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.

Let's not forget Him. Let's not turn away to other gods, to other things that promise satisfaction but only leave us empty. Let's hold on to Him, the true source of life and joy. Let's strive to walk in His ways, not just today, not just this week, but every day of our lives.

See you Sunday,

Dr. Scott Kallem