How does Judges 3:13 connect to God's faithfulness despite Israel's repeated failures?

Judges 3:13 in Context

“He gathered to himself the Ammonites and the Amalekites, attacked Israel, and seized the City of Palms.” (Judges 3:13)

Israel’s Failure Reiterated

– Verse 12 sets the stage: “Once again the Israelites did evil in the sight of the LORD.”

– Instead of driving sin out, they embraced the nations’ gods (Judges 2:11–13).

– Their compromise invited oppression; Moab, Ammon, and Amalek unite and capture Jericho—the very first city God had given them (Joshua 6).

– The fall of the “City of Palms” reminds Israel (and us) how quickly victories are lost when hearts wander.

God’s Faithfulness Displayed Through Discipline

– The LORD “strengthened Eglon king of Moab” (3:12). Divine sovereignty is at work even in enemy success.

– Discipline is covenant love in action: “Those whom the Lord loves He disciplines” (Hebrews 12:6).

– God promised both blessing and discipline (Deuteronomy 28; Leviticus 26). By keeping His word to discipline, He proves His faithfulness.

– Discipline aims at restoration, not destruction (Judges 2:18: “The LORD had compassion… whenever the judge died, they turned back…”).

– After eighteen years (3:14), God raises Ehud (3:15). Mercy follows judgment, confirming His steadfast commitment.

Faithfulness Consistent Across Scripture

– Psalm 89:32-33: “I will punish their transgression with the rod… but I will not withdraw My loving devotion.”

– Nehemiah 9:26-28 recounts the same cycle: rebellion, oppression, crying out, deliverance. God “did not forsake” them.

– 2 Timothy 2:13: “If we are faithless, He remains faithful.” New-Testament affirmation, same character.

Patterns and Purposes to Notice

– Sin → Servitude → Supplication → Salvation: The judges’ cycle magnifies grace.

– God’s sovereignty uses even hostile coalitions (Moab, Ammon, Amalek) to steer hearts back.

– By allowing Jericho’s capture, God exposes the emptiness of self-reliance and re-centers Israel on His power.

Lessons for Today

– Ongoing sin invites God’s loving correction; ignoring previous victories is dangerous.

– Discipline is evidence that God has not abandoned His people; He is keeping covenant.

– Past deliverances (Jericho, the cross) assure future mercies; His faithfulness endures despite repeated failures.