Judges
Need to turn wholeheartedly to God. The people did whatever they thought was best for themselves. Result was spiritual and moral decline. Our lives fall Ito decline and decay unless we live by guidelines God has given us.

Everyone did as he saw fit. In order for our faith to survive, it must be practiced day by day. It must penetrate every aspect of our lives. Beware of starting out strong and then getting sidetracked from your real purpose - loving god and living for him.

God didnt punish unjustly. Although he ordered Israelites to conquer and execute judgement, when they falters and disobeyed, he punished them for becoming evil.

Why didn’t people completely obey God??
1. They were tired from fighting for so long
2. Afraid enemy too strong
3. After Joshua died, lack of leadership
4. Spiritual decay from within

We often choose to tolerate sin rather than drive it out. This results is gradual deterioration of our relationship with God.

Too often people want God to fulfill his promises while neglecting excusing themselves from their responsibilities. Before I claim Gods promises, ask have I done my part??

Admit sins plainly to God rather than try to cover it up or hope we can get away with it.

Our disobedience deserves judgement but God shows mercy to us by providing an escape from sins penalty thru Jesus. Who alone saves us from sin.

We must seek christ’s help to live Gods way.

Perhaps God left obstacles in my life- hostile people, difficult situations, problems- to allow me to develop faith and utmost obedience to Him.