Java with the Judges - Week 1

"Whenever the Lord placed a judge over Israel, he was with that judge and rescued the people from their enemies throughout the judge's lifetime.  For the Lord took pity on his people, who were burdened by oppression and suffering."  Judges 2:18 New Living Translation

Welcome to the first week of our new study, Java with the Judges, by Sandra Glahn!  I'm so excited that you are here!

Let me encourage you to read the Introductions on page ix and xiii-xvi.  Here you will find valuable insight into the study, helpful chart of the Judges, map, and "The Cycle of Misery".  The study book includes almost all of the Scripture that you will need and is broken up into daily readings & questions.  Feel free to use the study in a way that best suits your schedule!  You don't need to read 'Monday' on Monday, but do read it in order.  Also note that we will discuss the entire week (Sun-Sat), during our Friday morning group session.  My last note about the study itself: Ms. Glahn uses the NET Bible translation.  I personally am not familiar with it, but so far it seems to be okay.  If you prefer to use a translation that you are more comfortable with, then please do.  As we found in previous studies, it's often a good idea to read different translations of the same passage, as different schools of translating use different philosophies, etc.  For instance, I love my New Living Translation Bible, so I used it for the openeing Scripture.  You'll notice it is different than the NET translation, but not significantly.

This first week (the first three books of Judges) introduces us to 4 of Israel's Judges.  There are lots of names of people and places!  Don't get hung up on them :)

If you find the proper nouns are giving you trouble, here's some helpful tips: 
* shorten the name or use a nick-name 
* use initials 
* replace the unprouncable name with something similar, but familiar 
* you can try this online prouncination guide, click here .  It doesn't include all of the names.    

The chart and map are helpful to keep track of what's going on, too.  There aren't many details about the people, places, or battles, so we'll have to use our imiganations a little bit.  But the details aren't the important part of this particular study.

The daily questions will help us focus on individuals, relationships and we'll start to see a pattern between God and His people emerge.   What can these stories mean for us in 21st century America?   Is there a corrolation to our world, society, or communities?

What does any of it mean for us personally?  How can stories about conquest in ancient, foreign lands possibly have any meaning to us individually?  Although reading stories of brave warriors can be quite exciting, it's in asking these questions that will provide insight, exploration, and bring us to a deeper level of understanding the Love God has for us.

Enjoy your cup of java (or tea, soda, water) while delving into the ancient world of the Judges!  Spend some time contemplating what it is God has to tell us through these stories.

I'd love to read your thoughts on our new study!  Please comment below about Judges 1-3, the study guide, or anything that's on your mind as you're reading.

I am looking forward to sharing this journey through Judges with you!

Your Partner in Ministry,

Shelly
honey

"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body."  Proverbs 16:24