What can we learn about obedience from Israel's victory in Judges 20:35? The Verse in Focus “The LORD struck down Benjamin before Israel, and on that day the Israelites slaughtered 25,100 Benjamites, all armed with swords.” (Judges 20:35) Key Observations • Israel’s victory is credited entirely to “the LORD,” not to Israel’s military prowess. • The triumph comes after Israel has repeatedly sought God’s guidance (vv. 18, 23, 27–28). • Obedience was expressed through patient, persistent submission—waiting for God’s timing rather than forcing their own. What Obedience Looks Like 1. Listening First • Israel “went up and wept before the LORD” (v. 23). • Obedience begins with earnest seeking, not impulsive action. 2. Accepting Hard Instructions • Twice the nation obeyed and suffered losses (vv. 21, 25), yet they did not abandon God’s word. • True obedience endures even when results are delayed. 3. Acting When God Says “Go” • After prayer and fasting, the LORD declared, “Tomorrow I will deliver them into your hands” (v. 28). • Immediate, wholehearted obedience followed. Consequences of Obedience • Divine Intervention: “The LORD struck down Benjamin before Israel” (v. 35). God honors those who heed His voice. • Fulfilled Promises: Deuteronomy 28:2 affirms, “All these blessings will come upon you… if you will obey the voice of the LORD your God.” • Vindication of Righteousness: Persistent obedience distinguishes faithful Israel from unrepentant Benjamin. Parallel Lessons from Other Scriptures • 1 Samuel 15:22—“Behold, obedience is better than sacrifice.” God desires submission over ritual. • James 1:25—Blessing rests on the “effective doer,” not merely the hearer. • Joshua 1:8—Meditating on and doing God’s law brings “prosperity and success.” Personal Application • Seek God’s counsel first; resist acting on mere instinct. • Remain steadfast when obedience seems costly; the setback may be part of God’s larger plan. • Move promptly when God’s direction becomes clear; delayed obedience is disobedience in disguise. • Trust that the Lord still “strikes down” obstacles for those walking in humble submission. Takeaway Truth Obedience positions us under God’s hand, where His power secures the victory that our own strength never could. |
    |