A Kingdom Without A King (I)

A Kingdom Without A King (I)

 “After that whole generation had been gathered to their fathers, another generation grew up, who knew neither the Lord nor what he had done for Israel. “

Judges 2:10

 Bible Reading: Judges 2:8-15

After the death of Joshua and his generation including Caleb, there grew another generation who had no understanding, revelation or relationship with the Lord. This new generation lived without the knowledge of God and what He has done for their fore-fathers. They did not hear or read about Abraham’s faith, Sarah’s perseverance and Moses ‘ dauntless sacrifice. How about Noah’s godly life amidst the pervasion which led to saving the entire human race?. They did not know about the miraculous signs in the book of exodus from the land of Egypt, the crossing of the Red Sea, God’s miraculous provision in the wilderness experience, the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night that guided the children of Israel.

This new generation did not understand the ten commandments, God’s decree and the sacrifices that many of their fore-fathers paid.” Another generation arose after them who did not know (recognize, understand) the Lord, nor even the work which He had done for Israel” (Judges 2:10 AMP). Since this new generation did not know God, they did not submit to the King of Kings. They never worshipped  nor obeyed God’s decree. They lived as people without destiny in God.

However, what I invite us to reflect upon in today’s devotional is the phrase, another generation grew up. This generation did not suddenly become ignorant of God. It was a gradual process. The people that were meant to teach them the way of the Lord did not teach them. In fact, they rebelled when being trained in God’s way, they never read the Law of the Lord which God commanded Joshua that it should not depart out of his mouth but to meditate day and night and observe all that is written therein. They never prayed, observed the sabbath, Passover, or even offered any sacrifice to the Lord. This generation was disconnected from God and the activities done to worship God were silenced. It was a kingdom without a king!

Furthermore, because growth is a gradual process, same as spiritual growth, this new generation neither knew God nor acquired what is needed to grow. Even if the seed was planted at some point in the people, there was no one to nurture it. This idea of growth brings us to the role of parents, pastors, teachers and those involved in the teaching and training children. May God help us raise a generation that truly knows God. May God help us to raise godly homes that will be God-centered.

Daily Confession: Lord Jesus helps us to raise a generation that will truly know You. May we be a generation that seeks you so that we can grow in your grace and favour.

Hymn: I am Thine, O Lord, I have heard Thy voice,

             And it told Thy love to me;

            But I long to rise in the arms of faith,

            And be closer drawn to Thee.

            Draw me nearer, nearer blessed Lord.