April 7

The book of Judges begins with a troubling cycle: Israel obeys God for a time, then drifts into disobedience, faces consequences, cries out for help, and is rescued—only to repeat the pattern. Instead of fully driving out the nations as God commanded, they allowed influences that led them into sin. Partial obedience led to spiritual compromise.

God, in His mercy, raised up judges to deliver His people, but they continued to waver in their faith. Their story reminds us that we must remain steadfast in our commitment to God, resisting the temptation to let worldly influences shape us.

In Psalm 16, David declares:  "I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With Him at my right hand, I will not be shaken." (Psalm 16:8)  

Unlike the Israelites in Judges who wavered, David knew that staying close to God was the key to a secure and joyful life. When we fix our eyes on the Lord, He becomes our refuge, our guide, and our unshakable foundation.  

In Luke 20, Jesus faces opposition from religious leaders who question His authority. Instead of being led by truth, they were controlled by pride and fear of losing power. Like the Israelites in Judges, they resisted fully surrendering to God’s authority.  

The lesson is clear: when we rely on our strength or wisdom, we falter. But when we trust in God's leadership, He secures our steps. Just as David declared that God was his portion and inheritance, we must commit to making Him the center of our lives, refusing to compromise our faith.  

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