Judges 1

Judges is a book of that could have written a different story.  The very first verse says,  “After the death of Joshua, the people inquired of the Lord.” It is quite interesting that we begin with a group of people that inquired of the Lord and end with the same group of people that did what was right in his own eyes.

My personal theme for 2021 is to press forward in the mission that God has called me to.  In order to continue living in that mission, I need to actively pursue three objectives Joshua 1 describes.

Regularly inquire of the Lord – In verse 1, we read a transition.  January is always a transition.  Often, it is one with new goals and aspirations.  We need to remain careful and diligent that we press forward in God’s mission for our lives.

Involve other people in your mission – In verse 3, Judah asks his brother to come alongside him in his mission.  We need our brothers and sisters in Christ to help us get closer to where God wants us to be.  We cannot accomplish God’s mission alone.  If we can, we might not be on God’s mission.  In 2021, look for a small group of people for reciprocating investment.  Each person involved will continue to press forward in God’s mission.

Press forward with courage – In verses 4-26, we read about different groups that defeated the obstacles in the way of pressing forward in God’s mission.  If we are going to be all that God has called us into this year, we need courage.  2020 is behind us, but that habits established in the previous year to do change without courageous efforts.  Our own walk with Jesus Christ needs courage.  Our impact on those in our church needs courage.  Our influence on those who need Jesus requires courage.  As Joshua 1:9 states, “Be strong and courageous, for the Lord your God is with you.”  

Run away from compromise – In verses 26-37, we read about mediocrity and compromise.  Some did not defeat their enemies as instructed.  Some established their own compromise and want God to change his standard.  God doesn’t change.  When we inquire of the Lord and discover our mission, we must press forward and run away from compromise.

Throughout the book of Judges, we will read about compromise and mediocrity.  I encourage each of us to search our own lives for the compromise that could derail our mission.  I also encourage each of us to search for the mediocrity (or obstacles) that prevents us from pressing forward in the mission God has placed us on.