Daily Readings (Page 212)

God’s promise of help was once again delivered through a messenger and leader, Gideon.  The message was once again clear that in spite of their disobedience, God remained faithful and forgiving.

The people of Israel was a cry of desperation, anguish and fear.  They cried for the Lord’s help when they were faced with great danger.  Were they even aware that the dangers were brought on by their own misdoings?

How did the Midianites harass the Israelites?  Why were they successful?

This apostasy pattern seems to be repeating once again, and now the Lord has given them into the hand of the Midian.  Is this a similar pattern for us today? How can we change?

What encouragement and warning can we draw from this verse alone? What kind of peace do you think Israel enjoyed over the 40 years?  

What is the key theme of Deborah’s praise song? What aspects of God’s character are highlighted?

The bloody and brutal assassination of Sisera by Jael was pivotal to Israel’s freedom from Jabin’s cruelty. What can we say about God’s way of delivering his people from oppression?

Sisera went to fight Barak at Kishon River. Who won? Who is truly the triumphant victor (vv14 & 15a)?

What does Barak’s response to Deborah’s message show about his relationship with God? In what matters have you responded to God in similar manner?

What reasons are given that the Israelites cried to the LORD for help? Why do you think it took them 20 years to seek God’s help?