Saturday, 8th June BE FAITHFUL “Zebulun and Naphtali were a people that jeoparded their lives unto the death in the high places of the field.” (Judges 5:18) Faithfulness is a willingness to take risks that require faith in order to be fruitful in God’s plan. After Joshua’s death, the Israelites turned their hearts away from the Lord to serve other gods and became captives of the King of Canaan who mightily oppressed them. Then they cried out to the Lord who raised up Deborah the prophetess, to be their judge and work on their delivery. Then she summoned Barak, to be Israel’s captain, to rally men from the different tribes to go up and defeat the enemy. And the Lord gave them great victory! But some tribes had earlier refused to play a part in this victory. They were unfaithful. So in her victory songs to the Lord, Deborah said concerning Reuben’s tribe: “Why abodest thou among the sheepfolds, to hear the bleatings of the flock? For the divisions of Reuben there were great searchings of heart.” (Judg. 5:16). In other words, Reuben’s tribe was full of excuses; they were busy rearing their sheep while their brethren risked their lives for the Lord. They were so indecisive and unwilling to make any sacrifice. Deborah also mentioned the unfaithfulness of Asher and Dan whose business partners were Israel’s enemy (Judg. 5:17). So they refused to help because they loved their money and business partners more than the Lord. But Zebulun and Naphtali were different! When called upon to serve, they jumped in and risked their whole life for the Lord. And through them the Lord gave Israel victory. Have you been faithful to the Lord? Are there areas you can improve upon? Be available to the Lord and let Him use you and what you have for the spread of the Gospel, and He will reward you greatly. Be faithful today! Prayer: Faithful Father, you gave it all for me, the life of your Son, your very best. All I am is devoted to you. I pledge my heart, soul and body to do you will; all I have I lay at your feet. Open my eyes to see what you want done and that will I do, all for your glory and praise in Jesus Name. Amen! Further Insight: Matthew 4:12-17 Study Plan: Joshua 20-21
Posted on: Fri, 07 Jun 2013 21:04:24 +0000