Bible Reading Plan | Devotion for the week of January 23, 2022

Weekly reading: Judges 1-5; Psalm 85-86
Passages referenced: JUDGES 2:1-2; JOHN 16:33

God’s angel went up from Gilgal to Bokim and said, “I brought you out of Egypt; I led you to the land that I promised to your fathers; and I said, I will never break my covenant with you – never!” – Judges 2:1-2, MSG

When life inevitably becomes difficult or stressful, I have a tendency to develop tunnel vision. I fixate on my problems, and the world around me fades in perceived importance. I become so consumed with whatever has me stressed out that I don’t give my friends and family what they deserve from me emotionally. Even worse, instead of turning to God during these difficult times, I tend to do the opposite and start neglecting my devotional and prayer time because I am too focused on solving problems on my own. Essentially, I lose perspective on what is important and forget the promises that God has made me.

This was especially true for me this year during the holidays. December tends to be my busiest time of the year at work. Add on all of the social engagements and pressures of gift buying and preparing for those gatherings, and I start to feel like my batteries are empty with no hope of getting recharged. Now, looking back on December after resuming more of a normal schedule, I realize that I missed out on an opportunity to share more of God’s love with the people around me. I let my difficult schedule distract me from the promise that God will meet me where I am and help me.

Jesus doesn’t promise to eliminate the craziness in our lives, but He does promise to give it meaning. As He reminds us in John 16:33, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart; for I have overcome the world.” His promise to us is that if we reach toward Him to find meaning in our struggles, He will always be there. He will never break His covenants!

There are countless stories in the Bible where people get distracted and lose focus on God’s plans for them. But God always forgives and is waiting with open arms when they get back on track. I missed out by not staying focused and trusting in the promises God has for me and my life. Starting the new year, my resolution is to trust in the Lord and rely less on myself. He is my creator and knows the end of the story before it is even written. I will trust in Him. – Mitch Reinholt

• Check out The Bible Project’s overview video of Judges. It is an excellent source for background information and context that walks through the book’s sections and themes. It can be really helpful for those who appreciate some visuals while learning.

• Do you have questions about this week’s Bible reading? We’d love to help! Rather than relying on the first thing you find on the internet, email us at biblequestions@warsaw.cc. We are more than happy to answer that nagging question you have, provide you with some clarity, or point you in the right direction for further study.