“The Israelites did evil in the Lord’s sight. They forgot about the Lord their God, and they served the images of Baal and the Asherah poles. 8 Then the Lord burned with anger against Israel, and he turned them over to King Cushan-rishathaim of Aram-naharaim. And the Israelites served Cushan-rishathaim for eight years. 9 But when the people of Israel cried out to the Lord for help, the Lord raised up a rescuer to save them. His name was Othniel, the son of Caleb’s younger brother, Kenaz. 10 The Spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he became Israel’s judge. He went to war against King Cushan-rishathaim of Aram, and the Lord gave Othniel victory over him. 11 So there was peace in the land for forty years. Then Othniel son of Kenaz died.”
Judges 3:7-11 NLT
Lord God of all,
Joshua has died (Joshua 24:29) and Eleazar the High Priest died (Joshua 24:3). History is a history of change. But it is in keeping a firm foundation that gives a good future. It is not standing still but keeping those things that give stability. But once again we read the children of Israel forgot God their security. But even here in the midst of their enemies and living in war torn lands You proved faithful. You waited till they realised their need and cried to You, You answered. It was not an easy answer and they had to deal with the trouble it did not just disappear! But then their was 40 years peace.
It is very reassuring Lord to know that we can call on You whether trouble is just life happening, because we have got in a mess, sinned or the enemy trying to get us down. Many of the Psalms speak about being able to call on You in times of trouble (34:17, 50:15) Then Jesus came and said, “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.” (Matthew 7:7)
There is no limit to Your help in all our situations. And there is an eternity of peace. Not dead peace and calm and quiet. But a living, joyful love filled fellowship of peace with You now and in Heaven. Please be our help at all times, O Lord our God.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Friday 4th April 2025
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Our God, our help in ages past,
Our hope for years to come,
Our shelter from the stormy blast,
And our eternal home:
Under the shadow of your throne
Your saints have dwelt secure;
All we need is You alone,
And our defense is sure.
Our God, our help in ages past,
Our hope for years to come,
God be our guide
As long as life will last
As long as life will last
Before the hills in order stood
Or Earth received her frame,
From everlasting you are God,
For evermore the same.
Our God, our help in ages past,
Our hope for years to come,
God be our guide
As long as life will last
As long as life will last
Lyrics: Isaac Watts
Contemporary lyrics: The great Jungle Journey