This morning, I got no further than reading the introduction to the Book of Judges…4 pages. This one book spans over 325 years. In that time, there were 12 heroes, men and women who delivered Israel from 6 different nations. From the introduction: When Joshua and the elders died, the nation experienced a leadership vacuum, leaving them without a strong central government. Instead of enjoying freedom and prosperity in the promised land, Israel entered the dark ages of her history. It notes a key verse: “In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit.” (17:6). One of the Megathemes: Israel’s moral downfall had its roots in the fierce independence that each tribe cherished. It led to everyone doing whatever seemed right in his own eyes. There was no unity in government or in worship. Law and order broke down. Finally, idol worship and man-made religion led to the complete abandoning of faith in God.

Does that sound familiar today? I gently closed the Bible and knew I needed to stop here. I took this to God in prayer because I recognized our country and our world today. And who will decide which government, which religion in this world today? An impossible feat. I always come back in prayer to that same place of hope for me…God’s Kingdom filling everything. In the meantime? I asked Him to lead me as I read so I can see from His eyes. I trust Him and I feel my will trying to nudge out that trust. The problems are so vast today! Looking to myself, right?

His answer to me this morning I will share here. Stay close to Me. I will show you My love for everyone. All have sinned and turned away from Me. They look to themselves. They took their eyes away from Me. When you keep your eyes on Me I am here. You are no longer wandering lost. You are found. Keep your eyes on Me and hold my hand. I am here for you not against you. My love will heal every hurt you sustained apart from Me. I will wipe away every tear and restore every heart in My great love. Keep your eyes on Me. I am the Way and the Truth and the Life your heart longs for. You are loved.

The peace I encounter in His Presence is more than I can describe. Keep your eyes on Him. He never leaves us, not then and now now. We leave Him when we look to ourselves for wisdom we don’t have. It’s may be painful, but we can learn from the mistakes our ancestors have made, that we make today. One day, we will all understand how much our Creator God loves each one of us. We can know that today if we keep our eyes on Him. I lift up my eyes to the mountains – where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip – he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord watches over you – the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm – he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Psalm 121.