He’s Right Behind You

Judges 3 gives us the story of a judge named Othniel. Othniel was a military leader, warrior, and effective judge selected by God to free the people of Israel from their oppressor.

Judges 3:7 And the people of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the Lord. They forgot the Lord their God and served the Baals and the Asheroth. 8 Therefore the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel, and he sold them into the hand of Cushan-rishathaim king of Mesopotamia. And the people of Israel served Cushan-rishathaim eight years. 9 But when the people of Israel cried out to the Lord, the Lord raised up a deliverer for the people of Israel, who saved them, Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother. 10 The Spirit of the Lord was upon him, and he judged Israel. He went out to war, and the Lord gave Cushan-rishathaim king of Mesopotamia into his hand. And his hand prevailed over Cushan-rishathaim. 11 So the land had rest forty years. Then Othniel the son of Kenaz died.

The people of Israel had turned to evil. This isn’t the first time we hear about the Israelites turning their back on God and going off into the woods. As far back as Exodus, we see a now free nation of Israel heading for the promised land. A 9-11 day journey then turns into a 40 year wilderness wandering adventure that would help die off a grumbling generation of people.

So many times in our own lives we grumble, complain, and take things into our own hands. So many times do we end up in trouble or in need of God’s help. God is always there to help us. As soon as we turn around, He’s right there waiting.

If you’re struggling today, pray about it. After that, take a good look at your life and ask yourself this question. Am I on God’s path? Here’s a quick secret as well. If you’re on God’s path, you’ll never have to ask where God wants you to go in life, and what he wants you to do. It will be plainly obvious.

Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us “5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

1 John 1:9 says “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

If you’ve gotten yourself into a tough sport, pause, talk with God. If there’s sin there, confess it, and let him cleanse you. And after that, trust in Him and let him guide your way.