How does Judges 20:23 connect to other instances of seeking God's counsel in Scripture? Verse in Focus “Then the Israelites went up and wept before the LORD until evening, and they inquired of the LORD: ‘Shall we again draw near for battle against our brothers the Benjamites?’ And the LORD answered, ‘Go up against them.’” (Judges 20:23) What Happens in Judges 20:23 • The nation gathers, worships, and weeps—deep dependence on God after an unexpected defeat (vv. 18-22). • They “inquired of the LORD,” expecting a literal, verbal answer. • God speaks clearly: “Go up against them.” Obedience follows even when the cost is high. Key Threads Running Through Scripture Repeated Pattern: Ask, Wait, Obey • Moses models it: “If Your presence does not go with us, do not lead us up from here” (Exodus 33:15). • Joshua pauses after Ai’s defeat, seeks God’s cause-and-cure (Joshua 7:6-10). • David regularly “inquired of the LORD”: – Against Philistines at Keilah (1 Samuel 23:2-4). – At Ziklag after loss (1 Samuel 30:8). – Twice before attacking Philistines (2 Samuel 5:19, 23). • Jehoshaphat gathers Judah to fast and seek the LORD before facing Moab and Ammon (2 Chronicles 20:3-17). • Early church prays and waits for direction on missions (Acts 13:1-3). Consequences of Neglecting Counsel • Joshua’s treaty with the Gibeonites: “The men of Israel…did not ask counsel from the LORD.” (Joshua 9:14). • Saul’s impatience and unlawful sacrifice (1 Samuel 13:8-14). • Saul’s final turn to a medium when God no longer answered (1 Samuel 28:6-7). Counsel in Wisdom Writings • “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6). • “Make me know Your ways, O LORD; teach me Your paths.” (Psalm 25:4). New-Covenant Continuity • Jesus spends nights in prayer before choosing the Twelve (Luke 6:12-13). • The apostle James writes, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God… and it will be given him.” (James 1:5). How Judges 20:23 Fits the Larger Picture • Affirms God’s willingness to give specific guidance when His people humble themselves. • Shows that previous obedience (v. 18) does not negate the need for fresh counsel. • Highlights perseverance in seeking after a setback—mirroring David at Ziklag and the apostles after persecution (Acts 4:23-31). Practical Takeaways • Serious decisions warrant earnest, extended seeking—“wept…until evening.” • God’s answer may repeat earlier direction, confirming faith (cf. Judges 20:18, 23). • Collective seeking—whole nation, whole church—invites clear corporate guidance. • Scripture, prayer, and obedience remain inseparable; God’s literal Word guides literal steps. In Short Judges 20:23 stands in step with a consistent biblical rhythm: God’s people confront crises by turning first to Him, waiting for His voice, then moving forward in obedient faith. |
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