16.November 2025

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BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS
Daily Bible Reading

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Judges 3 – Idolatry, Oppression, and God’s Deliverance
How God tests His unfaithful people – and still saves them

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Bible Text – Judges 3 (KJV)

¹ Now these are the nations which the Lord left, to prove Israel by them, even as many of Israel as had not known all the wars of Canaan;

² Only that the generations of the children of Israel might know, to teach them war, at the least such as before knew nothing thereof;

³ Namely, five lords of the Philistines, and all the Canaanites, and the Sidonians, and the Hivites that dwelt in mount Lebanon, from mount Baalhermon unto the entering in of Hamath.

⁴ And they were to prove Israel by them, to know whether they would hearken unto the commandments of the Lord, which he commanded their fathers by the hand of Moses.

⁵ And the children of Israel dwelt among the Canaanites, Hittites, and Amorites, and Perizzites, and Hivites, and Jebusites:

⁶ And they took their daughters to be their wives, and gave their daughters to their sons, and served their gods.

⁷ And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord, and forgat the Lord their God, and served Baalim and the groves.

⁸ Therefore the anger of the Lord was hot against Israel, and he sold them into the hand of Chushanrishathaim king of Mesopotamia: and the children of Israel served Chushanrishathaim eight years.

⁹ And when the children of Israel cried unto the Lord, the Lord raised up a deliverer to the children of Israel, who delivered them, even Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother.

¹⁰ And the Spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he judged Israel, and went out to war: and the Lord delivered Chushanrishathaim king of Mesopotamia into his hand; and his hand prevailed against Chushanrishathaim.

¹¹ And the land had rest forty years. And Othniel the son of Kenaz died.

¹² And the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the Lord: and the Lord strengthened Eglon the king of Moab against Israel, because they had done evil in the sight of the Lord.

¹³ And he gathered unto him the children of Ammon and Amalek, and went and smote Israel, and possessed the city of palm trees.

¹⁴ So the children of Israel served Eglon the king of Moab eighteen years.

¹⁵ But when the children of Israel cried unto the Lord, the Lord raised them up a deliverer, Ehud the son of Gera, a Benjamite, a man lefthanded: and by him the children of Israel sent a present unto Eglon the king of Moab.

¹⁶ But Ehud made him a dagger which had two edges, of a cubit length; and he did gird it under his raiment upon his right thigh.

¹⁷ And he brought the present unto Eglon king of Moab: and Eglon was a very fat man.

¹⁸ And when he had made an end to offer the present, he sent away the people that bare the present.

¹⁹ But he himself turned again from the quarries that were by Gilgal, and said, I have a secret errand unto thee, O king: who said, Keep silence. And all that stood by him went out from him.

²⁰ And Ehud came unto him; and he was sitting in a summer parlour, which he had for himself alone. And Ehud said, I have a message from God unto thee. And he arose out of his seat.

²¹ And Ehud put forth his left hand, and took the dagger from his right thigh, and thrust it into his belly:

²² And the haft also went in after the blade; and the fat closed upon the blade, so that he could not draw the dagger out of his belly; and the dirt came out.

²³ Then Ehud went forth through the porch, and shut the doors of the parlour upon him, and locked them.

²⁴ When he was gone out, his servants came; and when they saw that, behold, the doors of the parlour were locked, they said, Surely he covereth his feet in his summer chamber.

²⁵ And they tarried till they were ashamed: and, behold, he opened not the doors of the parlour; therefore they took a key, and opened them: and, behold, their lord was fallen down dead on the earth.

²⁶ And Ehud escaped while they tarried, and passed beyond the quarries, and escaped unto Seirath.

²⁷ And it came to pass, when he was come, that he blew a trumpet in the mountain of Ephraim, and the children of Israel went down with him from the mount, and he before them.

²⁸ And he said unto them, Follow after me: for the Lord hath delivered your enemies the Moabites into your hand. And they went down after him, and took the fords of Jordan toward Moab, and suffered not a man to pass over.

²⁹ And they slew of Moab at that time about ten thousand men, all lusty, and all men of valour; and there escaped not a man.

³⁰ So Moab was subdued that day under the hand of Israel. And the land had rest fourscore years.

³¹ And after him was Shamgar the son of Anath, which slew of the Philistines six hundred men with an ox goad: and he also delivered Israel.

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Introduction

Judges 3 is a key chapter in the entire book. It shows Israel’s recurring cycle:
Apostasy – Oppression – Cry for help – Deliverance – Rest – renewed apostasy.

God allows foreign nations to remain in the land in order to test, train, and sharpen Israel’s faith.
In this chapter the first three judges appear:

• Othniel – the exemplary, faithful first judge

• Ehud – the unexpected left-handed deliverer

• Shamgar – the brief but impressive rescuer

This chapter shows: God uses anyone who makes himself available to Him – even in unusual ways.

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Commentary

1⃣ The nations as a test for Israel (vv. 1–6)

God leaves certain nations in the land so that Israel might:

• learn war (spiritually and practically)

• be tested in obedience

• stay awake, not resting in false security

But Israel mingles with the Canaanites:
They marry their sons and daughters, and—worse—adopt their gods.

Compromises become chains.

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2⃣ The first deliverer: Othniel (vv. 7–11)

Israel forgets the Lord and serves Baal and Asherah.
God gives them into the hand of Cushan-Rishathaim for eight harsh years.

But Israel cries to the Lord, and He raises:

Othniel – the first judge

• the Spirit of the Lord comes upon him

• he leads the people in battle

• God grants victory

• the land has 40 years of rest

Othniel is the model of a faithful, spiritual leader.

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3⃣ The unusual deliverer: Ehud (vv. 12–30)

After Othniel’s death, Israel again falls away.
God strengthens Eglon, king of Moab, who oppresses Israel for 18 years.

Then comes Ehud, the Benjaminite – left-handed, a detail full of meaning:

• Weapons were normally worn on the left → his on the right → unnoticed

• God uses his uniqueness as a strategic advantage

Ehud’s approach:

1. He brings a tribute offering.

2. He turns back and requests a private audience.

3. He says: “I have a word from God for you.”

4. He kills Eglon with the concealed double-edged sword.

5. He flees, gathers Israel, occupies the Jordan fords.

6. Israel defeats 10,000 Moabite warriors.

Result: 80 years of rest.

God uses not only the strong – but the unexpected.

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4⃣ The brief report about Shamgar (v. 31)

Shamgar, son of Anath:

• kills 600 Philistines

• with an oxgoad – a simple farming tool

• saves Israel

Short but powerful:

God can do much with little.

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Summary

Judges 3 shows:

• Israel repeatedly falls into idolatry.

• God allows tests to reveal their hearts.

• Yet every time Israel cries out, God sends a deliverer.

• Othniel represents faithful obedience.

• Ehud shows God’s creative, surprising ways.

• Shamgar proves that God can use simple people with simple tools.

Human unfaithfulness is great – God’s patience is greater.

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Message for Us Today

1⃣ God uses trials to strengthen our faith – not destroy us.
Obstacles are God’s tools.

2⃣ Compromises always lead to spiritual bondage.
The small concessions of v. 6 become the idols of v. 7.

3⃣ God hears every cry for help.
Whenever Israel calls, God intervenes—always.

4⃣ God uses unusual people and unexpected ways.
A left-handed man (Ehud) and a farmer with a stick (Shamgar) become God’s heroes.

5⃣ Rest comes when God’s people return to Him.
The 40 and 80 years of peace are the result of obedience.

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Reflection Prompt

What “Moabites” or battles are you facing in your life—and could they be God’s tests meant to strengthen you?

Which call of God challenges you today to take steps of faith?

Are there compromises that have quietly slipped into your heart?

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16–22 November 2025

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BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS
Weekly Reading – Spirit of Prophecy

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Ellen White | Patriarchs and Prophets – Chapter 41
Apostasy at the Jordan | Warning against spiritual apostasy and moral seduction

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Read online here

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Introduction

The people of Israel stood directly at the border of the promised land. After great victories and divine guidance, the long-awaited homeland was within reach. But precisely in this moment of outward success, rest, and comfort came one of the worst spiritual collapses in Israel’s history: the apostasy at Baal-Peor.

This chapter vividly describes how moral seduction, spiritual unfaithfulness, and worldly mingling separated God’s people from their Lord—and what deep spiritual lessons it holds for us today.

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Commentary

1. The surroundings of Shittim – beauty and danger

Israel camped in a fertile, tropical plain by the Jordan. Outward prosperity, pleasant surroundings, and rest felt relaxing—but also disarming. This phase of leisure became a spiritual trap.

2. The secret seduction by the Midianite women

Midianite women entered the camp unobtrusively. Their intention was not friendship, but targeted seduction into sin. Under the guise of harmony and culture, the Israelites were to be led into idolatry and moral excess.

3. The feast in honor of the idols – Balaam’s strategy

Balaam, who had previously been unable to curse Israel, now found another way: he led the people close to temptation. Music, wine, cheerful feasting, and sensual allure undermined their self-control. Moral fall turned into idolatry.

4. The deadly plague – the consequences of apostasy

The spiritual and moral collapse had catastrophic consequences:
– A plague broke out that took tens of thousands.
– The leaders of the apostasy were judged.
– The camp underwent drastic purification.

5. The zeal of Phinehas

With holy determination, Phinehas acted to stop the judgment.
God affirmed his action and granted him the “covenant of peace”—an everlasting priesthood.
The message: God’s zeal against sin is an expression of His love for His people.

6. God’s judgment on Midian

Because Midian had deliberately led Israel into sin, divine judgment followed.
The lesson: those who cause others to fall spiritually bear tremendous responsibility.

7. The timeless warning—from the Old Testament to the end times

The account is not merely past. Paul explicitly states:
“This happened to them as an example … written for our admonition.” (1 Cor. 10:11)

Just as then:
– Seduction through pleasures
– Blending with worldly values
– moral dullness
– playing with temptation
still lead us away from God.

8. The spiritual mechanism of falling

The decline does not begin suddenly, but:
– thoughts become impure
– vigilance weakens
– prayer is neglected
– association with the world becomes careless
– small compromises accumulate
– in the end, a person visibly falls into sin

9. God’s way of escape: purity of heart

The Bible calls for a sanctified, guarded inner life:
– “Guard your heart” (Prov. 4:23)
– “Gird up the loins of your mind” (1 Pet. 1:13)
– “Whatever is true… think on these things!” (Phil. 4:8)
– “Create in me a clean heart” (Ps. 51:10)

Victory over temptation always begins in the heart—not in outward behavior.

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Summary

The apostasy at the Jordan shows that the greatest enemy of God’s people is not external threats but inner susceptibility. Israel did not fall by war, but by moral corruption and spiritual negligence. The path into sin began quietly, led to open excess, and ended in heavy judgment. Yet God offers purity, renewal, and protection to those who remain watchful and treasure His Word in their hearts.

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Message for Us Today

Spiritually speaking, we stand just as close to the “heavenly Canaan” as Israel did then. That is why the danger today is great—to fall in this final phase of history through comfort, worldly blending, or moral temptation. Satan uses the same means as then:
– sensual allure
– love of pleasure
– mingling with godless values
– neglect of prayer
– compromises in thinking

Therefore God’s call is:
Watchfulness, purity of heart, separation from destructive influences, and deep connection with His Word.

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Reflection Questions

What “Shittim moments” are there in my life—times of rest or self-satisfaction when I am particularly vulnerable to temptation? And how can I guard my heart before small compromises grow into great sins?

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16–22 November 2025

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BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS
Weekly Reading – Spirit of Prophecy

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Ellen White | Patriarchs and Prophets – Chapter 42
The Law Repeated | Moses’ final exhortations and God’s enduring call to obedience

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Read online here

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Introduction

Shortly before entering the promised land, Moses gathers the people of Israel one last time. He knows that his time as leader is ending—and that he himself will not enter Canaan. But before he departs, he repeats God’s law and reminds them of the great responsibility connected with the covenant with God. In a passionate, far-reaching appeal, he calls the people to faithfulness, obedience, and a choice for life.

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Commentary

1. Moses’ farewell in humility and concern

Moses asks God to allow him to go into the land—God does not permit it. Yet Moses accepts God’s decision and is not concerned about himself but about the people. He asks for a successor—and God chooses Joshua.

2. Joshua’s calling – a spiritual leader appointed

God chooses Joshua, “a man in whom is the Spirit” (Num. 27:18). Moses lays hands on him before the whole nation, investing him with authority. This shows: leadership is not human ambition but a divine commission.

3. Why the law needed to be repeated

The new generation was young at Sinai. They needed to hear God’s law again—to understand why obedience is the foundation for blessing, safety, and fellowship with God. The repetition was meant to touch heart and conscience anew.

4. Looking back at God’s guidance and grace

Moses reminds Israel of:

• the deliverance from Egypt

• the miracles in the wilderness

• the giving of the law

• God’s nearness

He shows: No other nation was ever so loved, guided, and blessed by God.

5. Israel—chosen out of love, not merit

“Not because you were more in number… but because He loved you” (Deut. 7:7–9). God’s covenant is based on faithfulness and grace—not on Israel’s strength. This truth is central to prevent pride and self-righteousness.

6. The promised land – both gift and responsibility

Moses describes the land: fertile, beautiful, supplied by God. But the warning follows immediately: When you are full, do not forget the Lord (Deut. 6:10–12). Prosperity can become a danger if it creates spiritual drowsiness.

7. Blessing and curse – the choice of life

Chapter 28 contains two mighty lists:

• Blessing for obedience: abundance, protection, success

• Curse for disobedience: hardship, scattering, judgment
  These warnings were tragically fulfilled in Israel’s history—among them the destruction of Jerusalem by Rome.

8. The solemn appeal: Choose life!

“I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse… therefore choose life” (Deut. 30:19).
God does not force—He calls. Obedience is not external duty but a decision born of love for God.

9. The Song of Moses – remembrance in poetic form

To imprint everything, Moses composes a song. It recounts God’s dealings and warns toward faithfulness. The people are to memorize it and pass it on to future generations—God’s truth is meant to penetrate the heart.

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Summary

Chapter 42 is Moses’ final great appearance before his death. He repeats the law, calls the people to decision, and transfers leadership to Joshua. The heart of his message: Israel was chosen by grace—now they are to respond with obedience and love. Blessing and curse lie openly before them. The choice is theirs.

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Message for Us Today

We too stand spiritually at the border of the “promised land”—the second coming of Jesus. God’s law still stands as the standard for our lives. The choice between life and death, obedience or our own path, arises anew each day. Prosperity, routine, and spiritual indifference are the same dangers now as then. God’s call applies to us as well:
– Choose life.
– Hold fast to the Word.
– Teach it to your children.
– Live with God—and for God.

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Reflection Questions

What shapes my daily decisions—comfort or obedience?
Is God’s law alive in my heart—or merely a duty?
How can others tell that I have chosen life with God?
How can I pass on the spiritual heritage to the next generation?

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LuxVerbi | The light of the Word. The clarity of faith.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/16-11-2025-%e2%9a%96%ef%b8%8f-judges-chapter-3-idolatry-oppression-and-gods-deliverance-%f0%9f%93%9c-believe-his-prophets/

November 16, 2025

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Joseph – Faith That Carries You Through
Devotions from the Life of a Dreamer with Character

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19.When God Changes the Season
How God Leads Joseph – and Us – Into New Life Chapters

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Daily Bible Verse

“He changes times and seasons; He removes kings and sets up kings; He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding.”
Daniel 2:21

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Introduction

The night before, Joseph had still heard the key turning from the inside of his cell. The cold stone walls were familiar, the rhythm of prison life ingrained in him. He didn’t expect any change—least of all such a sudden one.

But at dawn, a voice woke him: “Joseph! Get up! Pharaoh is calling you!”
What had remained unchanged for years changed in an instant.

This was often the case in Joseph’s life: seasons seemed to drag on forever—the years as a slave, the long days in prison—and then came God’s moment, turning everything around. When the door opened, it wasn’t just a new task—it was a whole new chapter in God’s plan.

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Joseph’s Journey: Through God’s Changing Seasons

1. The Long Winter
The years in Potiphar’s house and in prison felt like an endless winter for Joseph. He served faithfully, but with no prospect of change. Yet in hindsight, we see: God used this time to strengthen him—in integrity, self-control, and faith.

2. The Sudden Spring Day
One morning the call came. No warning, no days of preparation—just a moment that changed everything. That’s often how God’s timing works: slowly prepared, but suddenly revealed.

3. The Inner Transformation
Before Pharaoh stood not a bitter prisoner, but a man who had learned to give God the glory: “It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer.” (Genesis 41:16)
The external shift was only possible because the internal transformation had already happened.

4. The Assignment in the New Chapter
God didn’t elevate Joseph just to reward him or to free him out of pity, but to place him in a key position—for the protection of many people. Every change of season in God’s plan serves a purpose greater than our personal gain.

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What Can We Learn From Joseph?

1. Faithfulness in the Small Prepares You for the Great
   Joseph served in Potiphar’s house and in prison with the same dedication he later showed in the palace.

2. Character Matters More Than Talent
   His gift of interpreting dreams opened doors—but his solid character kept him in them.

3. Patience in Waiting
   Even when he was forgotten, he held on to God and trusted that God’s timing is best.

4. Forgiveness Instead of Bitterness
   When he had the power to take revenge on his brothers, he chose reconciliation.

5. Humility Despite Promotion
   Even as the second-most powerful man in Egypt, he said: “It is not in me; God will give you the answer.”

6. God is Greater Than Our Plans
   His dreams came true—but as part of a much bigger rescue plan for many people.

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Practical Steps for Our Own Season of Change

• Faithfulness Today – The day in the palace often begins with years of hidden faithfulness.

• Cultivate Inner Readiness – Stay spiritually awake, even when nothing visible seems to happen.

• Entrust the Past to God – It shapes us, but it must not bind us.

• Focus on God’s Mission – The new always serves His plan.

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Practical Questions for Reflection

• Where do you see parallels between Joseph’s transition from prison to palace and your own life chapters?

• What from your “old season” is hard for you to let go of?

• What habits or attitudes do you need now to remain faithful in the new?

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Prayer

Lord,
Thank You that, just like with Joseph, my times are in Your hands.
Help me to be faithful when it is quiet—and ready when You open doors.
Let me release the old without bitterness,
and receive the new with humility and obedience.
Use me in every season for Your glory.
Amen.

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Key Thought of the Day

God’s change of seasons often comes suddenly—
but He has been preparing you quietly for a long time.

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Blessing to Close

The God who turned Joseph’s prison into a throne room
is still the same today.
He knows your yesterday, He shapes your today,
and He holds the right moment for your tomorrow.
When He calls,
your heart will be ready.

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LumenCorde | Daily light for a living soul.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/16-11-2025-%f0%9f%8c%bejoseph-faith-that-carries-you-through-19-when-god-changes-the-season-%e2%9a%93-heart-anchor-youth-devotional/

15.November 2025

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BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS
Daily Bible Reading

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Judges 2 – Shifting Faith – Faithful God
Why Judges 2 is both a warning and a comfort

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Bible Text – Judges 2 (KJV)

¹ And an angel of the Lord came up from Gilgal to Bochim, and said, I made you to go up out of Egypt, and have brought you unto the land which I sware unto your fathers; and I said, I will never break my covenant with you.

² And ye shall make no league with the inhabitants of this land; ye shall throw down their altars: but ye have not obeyed my voice: why have ye done this?

³ Wherefore I also said, I will not drive them out from before you; but they shall be as thorns in your sides, and their gods shall be a snare unto you.

⁴ And it came to pass, when the angel of the Lord spake these words unto all the children of Israel, that the people lifted up their voice, and wept.

⁵ And they called the name of that place Bochim: and they sacrificed there unto the Lord.

⁶ And when Joshua had let the people go, the children of Israel went every man unto his inheritance to possess the land.

⁷ And the people served the Lord all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders that outlived Joshua, who had seen all the great works of the Lord, that he did for Israel.

⁸ And Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the Lord, died, being an hundred and ten years old.

⁹ And they buried him in the border of his inheritance in Timnathheres, in the mount of Ephraim, on the north side of the hill Gaash.

¹⁰ And also all that generation were gathered unto their fathers: and there arose another generation after them, which knew not the Lord, nor yet the works which he had done for Israel.

¹¹ And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord, and served Baalim:

¹² And they forsook the Lord God of their fathers, which brought them out of the land of Egypt, and followed other gods, of the gods of the people that were round about them, and bowed themselves unto them, and provoked the Lord to anger.

¹³ And they forsook the Lord, and served Baal and Ashtaroth.

¹⁴ And the anger of the Lord was hot against Israel, and he delivered them into the hands of spoilers that spoiled them, and he sold them into the hands of their enemies round about, so that they could not any longer stand before their enemies.

¹⁵ Whithersoever they went out, the hand of the Lord was against them for evil, as the Lord had said, and as the Lord had sworn unto them: and they were greatly distressed.

¹⁶ Nevertheless the Lord raised up judges, which delivered them out of the hand of those that spoiled them.

¹⁷ And yet they would not hearken unto their judges, but they went a whoring after other gods, and bowed themselves unto them: they turned quickly out of the way which their fathers walked in, obeying the commandments of the Lord; but they did not so.

¹⁸ And when the Lord raised them up judges, then the Lord was with the judge, and delivered them out of the hand of their enemies all the days of the judge: for it repented the Lord because of their groanings by reason of them that oppressed them and vexed them.

¹⁹ And it came to pass, when the judge was dead, that they returned, and corrupted themselves more than their fathers, in following other gods to serve them, and to bow down unto them; they ceased not from their own doings, nor from their stubborn way.

²⁰ And the anger of the Lord was hot against Israel; and he said, Because that this people hath transgressed my covenant which I commanded their fathers, and have not hearkened unto my voice;

²¹ I also will not henceforth drive out any from before them of the nations which Joshua left when he died:

²² That through them I may prove Israel, whether they will keep the way of the Lord to walk therein, as their fathers did keep it, or not.

²³ Therefore the Lord left those nations, without driving them out hastily; neither delivered he them into the hand of Joshua.

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Introduction

Judges chapter 2 is like a dramatic summary of what will repeatedly happen in the centuries to come:
God calls — the people respond briefly — and then fall back again.

It is the story of a God who remains faithful even when His people are unfaithful.
And it is a mirror showing how easily we today forget who God is and what He has done for us.

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Commentary

1. God’s Messenger Calls (vv. 1–5): The Pain of a Broken Covenant

The Angel of the Lord reminds Israel of three things:

1. God’s faithfulness:
   “I brought you out of Egypt… I will not break my covenant.”

2. God’s command:
   “Tear down the altars of the pagan nations.”

3. Israel’s failure:
   “But you did not obey My voice.”

The consequences are real: the nations remain in the land — not as a blessing, but as a snare and trap (v. 3).
The people weep, name the place Bochim (“place of weeping”), and bring sacrifices — but the sorrow is emotional, not transformational.

It is repentance without change.

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2. A New Generation Without Memory (vv. 6–10)

Joshua dies. The elders die.
And then comes the shocking statement:

“A new generation arose that did not know the Lord nor the works He had done.”

This is the first warning sign of spiritual decline:

If God’s works are not told, they are forgotten.
If parents do not pass on what God has done, the next generation will search for its own “gods.”

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3. The Spiral of Idolatry (vv. 11–15): The Downward Path

The Bible uses strong words:

• “They did evil”

• “They forsook the Lord”

• “They followed other gods”

• “They provoked the Lord”

The result is not arbitrary punishment, but consequence:
They lose protection, peace, stability.
God “sells” them into the hands of enemies — meaning He allows them to live out their choices and suffer the results.

A life without God always leads to bondage.

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4. God’s Compassionate Rescue (vv. 16–18): The Judges as Signs of Grace

Even though Israel is unfaithful, God does not stay distant.
He raises up judges to rescue them.
Verse 18 is crucial:

“For the Lord was moved to pity because of their groaning.”

God is moved — even by a people who repeatedly break His heart.
He is a God who weeps when we weep —
and who rescues even when we fail again.

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5. The Sad Relapse (vv. 19–23): Worse, Not Better

As soon as a judge dies, the people fall back — worse than before:

• deeper dependence on idols

• harder hearts

• stubborn attitudes

• deliberate refusal to learn

The nations in the land become an instrument of testing:

“…to test Israel, whether they will walk in the way of the Lord.”

God allows challenges — not to destroy but to reveal where the heart truly stands.

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Summary

Judges 2 shows us:

• God is faithful — Israel is unstable.

• God calls — Israel responds briefly, then returns to old patterns.

• God rescues — Israel falls again.

• God remains — even when Israel abandons Him.

It is a chapter full of pain but also full of hope:

Human unfaithfulness is great.
God’s patience is greater.

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Message for Us Today

1. Forgetfulness always leads to downfall.
   When we stop speaking of God’s works and giving thanks, our faith weakens.

2. Idols today look different but are just as dangerous.
   Success, consumption, approval, relationships, technology — anything can become a new Baal.

3. God allows tests, but not out of harshness.
   Challenges reveal what is inside us and where we turn.

4. God never gives up.
   Even after repeated failures, He calls, rescues, and remains.

5. Every person needs spiritual memory markers.
   Without intentional relationship, disobedience grows like weeds.

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Reflection Prompt

Ask yourself:

Which “idol” has quietly slipped into my heart — and is pulling me away from God’s path?

And then:

Which judge — which divine call — is trying to bring me back right now?

God’s story with Israel is also God’s story with you:
He sees the relapse —
but He also sees the possibility of return.

Today is a good day to leave Bochim behind and start anew.

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9–15 November 2025

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BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS
Weekly Reading – Spirit of Prophecy

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Ellen White | Patriarchs and Prophets – Chapter 40
Balaam | A Warning Example of Compromise, Greed, and Spiritual Self-Deception

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Read online here

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Introduction

The story of Balaam is found in Numbers 22–24 and is extensively commented on in chapter 40 of Patriarchs and Prophets.
It is the story of a man who knew God’s voice, yet followed his own heart — a prophetic drama between calling and bribery, truth and deception.

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Commentary

1. The Fear of the Moabites (Introduction)

The Israelites camp on the border of Canaan. Moab panics — not because of an actual threat, but out of fear of God’s power. Balak, the king, seeks supernatural help from a questionable prophet: Balaam.

Lesson:
Fear leads people to irrational decisions, especially when they do not understand God’s work.

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2. Balaam’s Inner Conflict

Balaam had once been a true prophet, but greed had corrupted him. He knows God’s will — yet says: “I will ask again.”

Lesson:
When we know what is right but still keep “asking further,” we are often already walking toward self-deception.

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3. The Wrong Path — and God’s Resistance

Balaam sets out despite God’s clear prohibition. God blocks his path through an angel, whom only the donkey sees. The prophet, spiritually blind, strikes the animal until God opens his eyes.

Lesson:
Sometimes animals recognize God’s intervention sooner than humans do.
Spiritual blindness makes us ignore — or even fight — God’s warnings.

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4. From Curse to Blessing

Three times Balaam attempts to curse Israel — but God forces him to bless. His famous words declare Israel’s beauty and God’s favor.

Lesson:
No one can curse what God has blessed.
Even a resistant man can be used as God’s instrument — though to his own harm.

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5. The Final Temptation and the Deep Fall

Despite divine interventions, Balaam’s heart remains unchanged. He seeks another way to please Balak — advising him to lead Israel into sin (Baal-Peor).
As a result, 24,000 die, and Balaam himself perishes.

Lesson:
The path of sin begins with small compromises — but it ends in judgment.

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6. The Parallels to Judas

Like Judas, Balaam was spiritually privileged but poisoned by greed. Both betrayed God’s people for money — and both met destruction.

Lesson:
Great knowledge does not protect from falling.
Only daily humility, genuine surrender, and watchfulness can.

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Summary

Balaam is a tragic figure: a prophet who knew God’s voice yet followed his own heart. Despite clear divine guidance, he tried to bypass God’s will — using religious language to mask his own agenda.
He was spiritually blind, driven by greed and vanity. His life ends in judgment — not because God failed to warn him, but because he ignored the warnings.

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Message for Us Today

• Spiritual gifts do not replace character.

• God’s will is not negotiable.

• A single cherished sin can destroy a life.

The path of obedience may be uncomfortable, but it is safe.
The path of compromise may shine — but it ends in ruin.

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Reflection Questions

Where are you trying to adjust God’s will to your own desires?
Is there a “donkey” in your life trying to stop you — but you are beating it?
Is your spiritual vision clear — or do you need God to open your eyes again?

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LuxVerbi | The light of the Word. The clarity of faith.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/15-11-2025-%e2%9a%96%ef%b8%8f-judges-chapter-2-shifting-faith-faithful-god-%f0%9f%93%9c-believe-his-prophets/

November 15, 2025

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Joseph – A Faith That Carries Through
Devotions from the Life of a Dreamer with Character

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18.From Prison to Palace 
When God Elevates – In His Way and In His Time

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Daily Bible Verse

“Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and they quickly brought him out of the pit. […] You shall be over my house, and all my people shall order themselves as you command.”
Genesis 41:14, 40

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Introduction

The cold of the iron chains weighed heavily on Joseph’s wrists. Only a narrow beam of light pierced through the prison bars, mixed with the damp smell of dungeon walls. One more day—he thought. One more day in obscurity.

Suddenly, hurried footsteps echoed through the corridor.
“Joseph! Get up! Pharaoh is calling for you!”
In just a few moments, the shackles were removed, clean clothes were brought, and he was led out—out of the darkness, through the bright, expansive halls of the palace.

That day, everyone saw only the great moment: the prisoner became a ruler, the slave a leader.
But what no one could see were the invisible years of preparation—betrayal, slavery, prison—every stage forming the character of the man now standing before the most powerful ruler of the known world.

When Joseph stood before Pharaoh, he did not speak bold or self-promoting words, but simply said:

“It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer.” (Genesis 41:16)
That was the fruit of a long, inner journey.

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Joseph’s Journey: Deeper Insights into the Character of One Called by God

Joseph as a Young Man

Perhaps as he approached the palace, Joseph thought back to his youth in Canaan—to the dreams he had shared with his brothers. Back then, he was young, maybe a bit proud, and believed their fulfillment was near.
But God knew: The promise was there—but his character wasn’t ready yet.

The First Break: Betrayal by His Brothers

As he walked toward Pharaoh, he may have recalled the dull echo of the cistern his brothers had thrown him into. The very people who were supposed to love him tore him from everything he knew.
This deep injustice taught him not to idealize people, but to trust God.

In Potiphar’s House

The steps leading to the throne room might have echoed the ones he took while serving in Potiphar’s house—faithfully, diligently.
Back then, he was brought down by a lie. He learned:
You can do what is right and still suffer injustice—and still remain in God’s hand.

In Prison

Perhaps he still smelled the scent of the prison in his clothes as he approached Pharaoh.
There, he had learned to serve others—even when his own prayers seemed unanswered.
There, his faith matured until he was ready.

The Turning Point

When Pharaoh asked him if he could interpret dreams, Joseph responded without hesitation:

“It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh an answer.”
These words weren’t just a religious phrase—they were the sum of all his years in God’s training school.

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  What Can We Learn From This Long Journey?

1. God sees more than potential – He wants maturity.
   Dreams show possibilities.
   But only character enables you to carry them without harming yourself or others.

2. Prisons aren’t always punishment – sometimes they’re a school.
   God may take you out of the spotlight to strengthen you in secret.

3. Waiting isn’t a waste of time.
   God works in the depths. He anchors what will later need to stand firm.

4. The door to your calling often opens when you least expect it—but when you’re inwardly ready.
   God acts suddenly—but never unprepared.

5. Power and influence are not the goal—but a responsibility.
   Joseph didn’t use his position for revenge, but for blessing—that shows true greatness.

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What Can We Learn From Joseph?

1. God Uses Detours for Preparation

Joseph’s journey wasn’t straight. Betrayal, slavery, prison—none of that was in his original plan.
But these very stations were used by God to shape him.
Sometimes, God prepares you in the depths before He lifts you up.

2. Faithfulness in the Hidden Places Matters

Joseph didn’t wait passively. He served actively—in Potiphar’s house, in prison, in obscurity.
He used his gifts without an audience, without applause.
Whoever is faithful in little, God can entrust with more.

3. Character is More Important Than Talent

Joseph had dreams from the start—but he had to learn how to handle them with responsibility.
What enabled him to stand before Pharaoh wasn’t just his gift—it was his refined character: humility, wisdom, self-control.

4. Waiting Is Not Wasted Time

Joseph was forgotten for two years—but not by God.
In the waiting, he developed patience, inner strength, trust.
God is never late—just often later than we expect.

5. God Opens Doors—At the Right Time

When Pharaoh needed a dreamer, Joseph was ready.
He didn’t have to free himself or push his way forward.
God is able to make you seen—when your time has come.

6. Forgiveness Frees – Not Power

Joseph later had all the power to take revenge on his brothers. But he chose forgiveness.
His heart wasn’t poisoned by bitterness—but healed by God’s love.
The ability to forgive is often the greatest sign of true maturity.

7. God’s Plans Are Greater Than Our Dreams

Joseph’s dreams were fulfilled—but not in the way he imagined.
They became part of God’s greater rescue plan for many.
What God does often goes far beyond our personal expectations.

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Practical Questions for Reflection

• Which times in your life felt like “prisons”—and what might God have been doing in them?

• Is your heart still ready if God suddenly opens a door that has long been closed?

• Are you using your gifts faithfully today—even if no one is watching?

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Prayer

Lord,
Thank You that You are working in me even when I can’t see it.
Help me to see waiting not as a burden, but as preparation.
Shape my character so I can carry what You entrust to me with wisdom and humility.
Give me a heart that longs not for power, but for faithfulness to You.
When Your time comes—make me ready.
Amen.

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Key Thought of the Day

Calling requires preparation.
God shapes in the hidden places before He elevates in the visible ones.

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Blessing to Close

The God who led Joseph through deep valleys and entrusted him with great responsibility
is also with you—in every room, every detour, every waiting season.
May He see your heart, honor your faithfulness,
and give you the maturity that can carry your calling.
And when the day comes that He calls you—
may your heart be ready.

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LumenCorde | Daily light for a living soul.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/15-11-2025-%f0%9f%8c%bejoseph-faith-that-carries-you-through-18-from-prison-to-palace-%e2%9a%93-heart-anchor-youth-devotional/