Denver Seminary

"The Israelites cried out to the Lord so the Lord raised up an anointed deliverer for them." (Judges 3:15)

When in a state of despair and chaos, the Israelites knew that turning to God carried important benefits. Time and time again, after the Israelites cried out to God, the Lord answered their cry. Throughout their history, God raised up for them anointed leaders who provided stability and security for the whole community. While in Egypt, God raised Moses to deliver His people out of bondage.During the Israelites’ wilderness wandering, God groomed Joshua to replace Moses, and after conquering Canaan, God provided judges to lead His people and to bring them to a place of safety and peace. 

Although God wanted to be their ultimate Leader, Judge, Provider, and we can even add ‘their Everything’, the Israelites thought they needed a visible and touchable figure who spoke their language and identified with their human struggles. Over and over again, God recognized their cries of desperation and provided leaders upon whom He placed His anointing and His seal of approval. Without the strength and inspiration of the Holy Spirit, these leaders could never have participated in delivering God’s people nor lead them into the plan God had for them.

Throughout Scripture, God promises that He will never leave nor forsake His people. Regardless of circumstances, of location, of offenses committed, God’s eyes are always on His people. His ears are always open to their cry. He is forever faithful to deliver, even when situations seem impossible to our human eyes. As the people of God, we are invited to turn to Him in times of trouble and to thank Him in times of peace. What a faithful Friend we have!