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Judges-19

The Reality of Evil: A Devotional Study on Judges Chapter 19​

Introduction​

The book of Judges chronicles a period in Israel's history when they struggled with spiritual obtusity and moral decay. The story in Judges Chapter 19 depicts the reality of evil that exists in our world. As we delve into this text, let's explore the spiritual insights we can gain from it.

Section 1: The Levite's Situation (Judges 19:1-6)​

Devotional Thought: In this passage, we find a Levite and his concubine fleeing from the city of Ephraim to Jebus (Jerusalem) due to a civil war in Benjamin. As they waited in the outskirts of Jerusalem, the Levite's concubine pleaded with her husband to return home. She was humiliated, raped, and abused by the residents of Gibeah. The Levite's failure to stand up for his wife and protect her represents the failure of many people to stand against evil in the face of danger. Let us ask ourselves, "In times of danger and conflict, how am I responding?"

Reflection Questions:

  • Have you ever failed to stand up to evil or protect the vulnerable in times of danger?
  • How can we develop the courage to stand against sin and evil in our community?

Section 2: Evil empowers Evil (Judges 19:7-18)​

Devotional Thought: After living among the Israelites for three days, the Levite decided that he couldn't bear the shame of returning home. He chose to leave his concubine with the men of Gibeah, stating that she will persuade them to send him on his way. However, the men of Gibeah treated his concubine as an object, mocking, and abusing her all night long until she died. The Levite couldn't bear the shame of his wife's condition and cut her body into 12 pieces to send a message to the Israelites. The terror and genocidal tendency of evil people toward innocent people remain a vivid image in our minds. Let us not disregard or neglect evil but fight it with all our might!

Reflection Questions:

  • Can you recall instances of betrayal and abuse delivered to the innocent in our world?
  • In what ways can we fight against such evil and ensure justice for the oppressed?

Section 3: Israel Mourns (Judges 19:19-21)​

Devotional Thought: After piecing together the remains of his concubine, the Levite arrived at Mount Ephraim. When the Israelites saw the 12 pieces of the Levite's concubine, they realized the gravity of sin and the brutality of evil. They mourned her death and wanted to rescue her spirit. Let us recognize that every life is valuable, and death is a consequence of sin and evil. Let us not forget that we are all responsible for fighting against such evil and protecting the dignity and life of the innocent.

Reflection Questions:

  • Can you imagine a world where such brutal crimes don't exist?
  • In what ways can we actively advocate for the dignity and protection of innocent lives?

Conclusion:​

The story of Judges chapter 19 is a poignant reminder of the reality of Evil. It guides us to reflect on our own role in combating evil. As we seek to be conquerors over evil, let us remember that courage and action are essential elements that must collectively be applied by each and every one of us. Let us fight against evil in our community with all our might, stand up for what is right, and value each human life, including that of the marginalized and the voiceless.