From today’s reading...
They defiled themselves by such actions, their behaviour was that of a harlot. Yahweh's anger blazed out at his people, his own heritage filled him with disgust. Time and again he rescued them, but they still defied him deliberately, and sank ever deeper in their guilt; even so he took pity on their distress, as soon as he heard them cry out.” Judges 2:39-44
Time and time again, I’ve rescued my seven kids from everything from falling down the stairs to touching hot stoves to drowning in our pool or being swept out to sea at the beach.
It’s what we do as loving parents.
But it’s painful when your kids ignore your warnings and wise counsel only to learn that improper actions have painful consequences.
We’ve seen it happen in our own lives, in our homes, and in companies we’ve worked for.
We’ve seen it in congregations, in communities, and in government administrations. And the Bible teaches us that it happens to entire nations as well.
Being stiff-necked people, though, we must hit rock bottom before we realize we ain’t as good or as smart or as crafty as we thought and finally reach out for help.
That is if we can swallow our pride and ask for—and accept—help.
That’s all we have to do, though, to be saved from the painful consequences of our foolish actions because God is loving, patient, and kind, and remembering that is the only way to...
Stay the course.
Keep the faith.
Endure.
Now go sell something.
