What can we learn from Israel's persistence in seeking God's will in Judges 20:23? The Setting Judges 20 describes Israel’s painful civil war against Benjamin after the sin at Gibeah. Verse 23 records a key moment of national prayer: “ ‘And the Israelites went up and wept before the LORD until evening, and inquired of the LORD: “Shall we again advance toward our brothers the sons of Benjamin?” The LORD answered, “Go up against them.” ’ ” ( Judges 20:23) Observations on Israel’s Persistence • They approached God together—tribes united in the house of the LORD. • They wept until evening—honest emotion, not hurried ritual. • They kept asking after a costly defeat (vv. 19–22)—setbacks did not silence prayer. • Their question stayed specific—“Shall we again advance…?” • They waited for a clear word—no presumption, only movement after God spoke. What We Learn • Dependence is daily, not one-time. Yesterday’s guidance is not assumed for today (Exodus 16:4-5; Matthew 6:11). • Tears have a place in seeking God (Psalm 56:8; Hebrews 5:7). Brokenness draws us near. • Corporate prayer matters. When a whole community seeks, God answers in ways that shape the whole (Acts 13:1-3). • Persistence is an act of faith, not doubt (Luke 18:1-8; James 5:16-18). • Clarity follows submission. They first humbled themselves, then heard, then obeyed (Proverbs 3:5-6). Supporting Passages • Psalm 27:14—“Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.” • James 1:5—“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God… and it will be given to him.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:17—“Pray without ceasing.” • Isaiah 30:21—“Your ears will hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’ ” • Luke 11:9—“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.” Practical Take-Aways • Set rhythm: carve unhurried time to seek God before decisions. • Fast when burdens are heavy; Israel wept until evening—physical commitment underscores spiritual need. • Lean on Scripture; inquire with an open Bible so His written word frames every request. • Seek counsel in community; invite trusted believers to pray and confirm direction. • Obey the light you have; God often gives further guidance to those already walking in the last word He spoke. |
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