Judges 12: 7-15

Now for 31 years Israel did right in the sight of the Lord and as the last judge Abdon died their obedience also wained.

Jephthah, Ibzan , Elon, and Abdon of all these Judges in chapter 12 Jephthah was the only one that we really know what happened. The others are just noted and a brief description was given of their families, how long they served as Judge and where they were buried.

For me today, the closing of this chapter is just a good reminder that as we journey along in our walk with the Lord, we have seasons where things just seem to plug along and all seems right with the Lord and with us. Ever look back over the year and think wow, there were a few months that were just AMAZING and others you wish you’d never had to live through again?
I have just been through a difficult year or two and it seems that I’ve just come through it but there are moments, even days where I just feel as though I am not moving fast enough and with that comes frustration and lack of understanding.

Israel was considered God’s chosen people and they were loved by God and as a result He wanted them in right relationship with Him growing and maturing in their understanding of Him and His purpose for them.

How much more does our Lord and Savior desire that relationship with us? He has plans for us and they are not to harm us but to prosper us…..

Today, as you go about your day, be reminded of the season of your life. You may be in the fall season where something has been brought to the surface and it requires for that “thing” to die, so that God can bring about change and new life in you. It may be the spring when the rains come and help to give growth. You may be experience those growing pains where success and failure are so evident. Where ever you are just remember the Lord is walking with you through it all and He only desires that you love Him with all your heart, mind and soul.

Lord, we thank you for your son who died on the cross for us. Thank you for using us in different ways and for loving us enough that you don’t want us to remain the same but you want us to grow to maturity. I pray for all the women who read this that they would be encouraged today in what ever season they are in and that they would remain steadfast and immovable. Give them courage Lord to continue in what it is You would have them do and help them to be strong and to persevere.

It is in your name I pray,
The Name of Jesus.
Amen…………