After both of God’s chosen leaders were gone, the people relied on Judges after Moses and Joshua died. The book of Judges recounts the tumultuous period without God’s anointed. The people faced uncertainty as they forgot all that God had done. God instructs the tribe of Judah to lead the charge, demonstrating divine support through their victories.  After the evil king Adoni Bezek, was defeated, he admits divine justice for his past cruelty. History reveals that not all of the rescued people follow God’s commands. Our selfish nature continues to cause spiritual decline. Our cycle of disobedience always results in God withdrawing His favor. People today suffer under evil rulers, threats of war, and foreign oppression. Do all the significant signs of the times prompt souls to cry out to God, or do we betray Him and demand a better ruler?

History reveals God’s story of patience and mercy with a fickle people. In the past, God raised up judges to deliver His people from oppression and to restore peace. However, under any man, any sort of peace is fragile. People of God have repeatedly forgot their covenant with the King of the universe.  We recycle worry, not faith! Therefore, because we lack faith, we yet suffer until we return to God through repentance.

God chose to give a woman commanding words to speak that caused victory when no man stood up. Our God’s ways confound the wise then — and now. He used Deborah to display women’s many pivotal roles in history. Judges outlines themes of courage and divine providence as God allows mankind to make choices and reap the severe consequences of forgetting God. Strong leadership is needed as the cyclical nature of mankind’s faithfulness and rebellion, urges us to reflect on our own obedience and reliance on divine guidance.

Some of the judges raised by God to deliver God’s people from oppression included:

1. **Othniel** – The first judge delivered Israel from the oppression of Cushan-Rishathaim.

2. **Ehud** –  Cleverly assassinated King Eglon of Moab, leading to Israel’s victory and subsequent peace.

3. **Deborah** – Alongside Barak, led Israel to victory.

4. **Gideon** – Defeated the Midianites with a small army, demonstrating faith in God’s guidance.

5. **Jephthah** – Led Israel against the Ammonites and is noted for his tragic vow.

6. **Samson** – Known for his incredible strength. Hus weakness was his lust for recognition and anger.

These judges played crucial roles in delivering people from their enemies and restoring peace during a time of turmoil.

The End is Coming and we are wise to focus on biblical prophecy and its practical implications. Being alert, ready, and attentive to biblical warnings:

1. Be ever ready for Jesus imminent return: The faithful are constantly preparing for Jesus’ return, Matthew 24:44, He will come unexpectedly, like a thief. Believers must remain vigilant and ready at all times.

2. Practical Application: Be praying to be found worthy and faithful.

3. Signs of the Times: See the signs of the times, such as the resurgence of nationalism and the fulfillment of biblical prophecies. The budding of trees can be seen as new nations are demanding their independence. The  current global wars and political movements.

4. Response to Trials: Keep a positive attitude towards challenges, like labor pains that signal the arrival of God’s kingdom. Instead of being discouraged by global turmoil, believers should find hope and excitement in the expectation of Christ’s return.

5.  Readiness / Recognition: Know the times we live in as they fulfill prophecies.
Expectation● Maintain a hopeful outlook during difficult periods, seeing them as signs of upcoming redemption. ● Detach from Worldly Concerns ● Avoid being weighed down by life’s distractions and worries, focusing instead on spiritual readiness. ● Pray always to remain equipped for challenges and to be counted worthy of escaping the impending tribulations.

6. Collective Responsibility: The church’s duty to proclaim the gospel to all nations before the end comes. Matthew 24:14. This responsibility involves financial support and intercession for ministries working to evangelize.

7. Be God’s Ambassador: Act on His behalf. Commit to Christ with urgency, as time is limited. The pressures of the world are intensifying. Live in a state of readiness and engagement. Use your gift in God’s plan as you await Christ’s return.