Judges 20 - Praying God's Word

Please read Judges 20.

www.blueletterbible.org/nasb/jdg/20/1/s_231001

Meditate on verse 7.

Behold, all you sons of Israel, give your advice and counsel here.

Israel was in the middle of sin, and the results were deadly. Shocked to their senses by a murdered woman’s body parts, the men of Israel sought their own counsel and decided to punish the murderers. Only after making their plans, did they ask God for a little advice (v. 18). God was not pleased to be consulted after plans were made, and He allowed 22,000 men to be killed (vs. 18-21). The sons of Israel were dismayed and wept before the LORD (v. 23). Afterwards, 18,000 more men were killed (v. 25). “Then all the sons of Israel and all the people went up and came to Bethel and wept; thus they remained there before the LORD and fasted that day until evening. And they offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the LORD. The sons of Israel inquired of the LORD ...” (vs. 26-27).

God taught His people important lessons, and He wants you to learn them, too. Seeking human counsel before getting God’s counsel displeases the LORD and results in defeat. Here are the steps that bring God’s plans and blessings (vs. 26-28):

1.     Remain in God’s presence           5.   Seek His advice

2.     Fast                                                     6.   Cease fighting

3.     Confess sins                                     7.   Let God deliver you

4.     Accept God’s forgiveness

Pray Judges 20:26-28 over yourself and those for whom you stand guard as a faithful, prayerful watchman (Isaiah 62:6-7).

“LORD, may _______ and I remain before You,

 fasting and offering ________ before You. 

We inquire of You concerning ________.

Tell us if we should go out to battle or cease fighting.

 Deliver us, LORD.

In Your name, Jesus~”

The Watchman on the Wall 2 – Dr. Ron and Marsha Harvell