Judges 19, Proverbs 27, Hebrews 12

One thing leads to another. The depth of depravity described here didn't get that way overnight. It crept up like a cat stalking a mouse. The nation of Israel, tribe by tribe and city by city, rejected God. They turned to idols and did whatever they wanted. Today we might call it a progressive society. In this case, we mean one that progresses away from any religious or moral underpinnings. The word "freedom" might be invoked, misused to mean everybody can do their own thing without regard for the consequences to anyone else.

Chapter 19 presents a stark picture, but we must face it full-on if we're to avoid repeating it.

Solomon wanted his son to learn and be wise. Verse 11 speaks to the son, telling him so. Solomon has learned that it's important for a king to make sure he has good friends and keeps them because family will try to take the throne away. Solomon saw this happen when his brother, Absalom, stirred up a coup against their father, David. Solomon also teaches his son how to keep the kingdom strong in verses 23-27.

Even though we aren't kings, the same wise principles apply to us. Friends are priceless and prudence preserves our resources.

The lynch pin holding all three chapters in Judges, Proverbs, and Hebrews together today is the discipline we read about in Hebrews 12. If we reverence God and persevere with the goal of heaven in mind, if we endure, if we maintain an accurate mental image of our God, we will avoid sin and be wise.

Joshua 10, Psalm 144, 1 Thessalonians 1

Fight and Win. The great victory of Joshua and the Israelites over the five kings and their cities of the South land illustrates the victory of a Christian in complete obedience to God. When the Lord said, "Do not fear them, for I have delivered them into your hand . . ." Joshua took Him at His word and and marched all night to Gibeon to engage the enemy. His faith and trust were so strong that he told the sun and moon to hold still until the enemy was vanquished. God rewarded Joshua's trust by halting the sun and moon. Then He finished off the escapees with hailstones.

Remember Past Victory. David experienced the same kind of victory. He recognized that it was the Lord who did it. And he and his kingdom lived the reward of peace and prosperity.

Anticipate Future Victory. The Christians in the Thessalonian church received great power through the Spirit when they trusted Christ. And their changed lives were a testimony to all the neighboring regions.

Just as the victories of Joshua, David, and the Thessalonians became a testimony to the world, the victory of God in our lives shows to our circle of influence what a might God we serve. But victories don't happen without battles.

How to Win:
1. Put on your spiritual armor.
2. Engage the enemy in the name of the Lord.
3. Trust Him to fight for us and win for us.
4. Believe the victory from the beginning.

Then watch what God does and enjoy the peace He gives.