(And the children of Israel went up and wept before the LORD until even, and asked counsel of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up again to battle against the children of Benjamin my brother? And the LORD said, Go up against him.) And the children of Israel came near against the children of Benjamin the second day. And Benjamin went forth against them out of Gibeah the second day, and destroyed down to the ground of the children of Israel again eighteen thousand men; all these drew the sword. Then all the children of Israel, and all the people, went up, and came unto the house of GOD, and wept, and sat there before the LORD, and fasted that day until even, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the LORD. And the children of Israel enquired of the LORD, (for the ark of the Covenant of GOD was there in those days, (Jdg 20:23-27)
GOD not only had to punish this wickedness, to root out this grievous sin and wickedness, but also to teach those that would hear and learn the nature and result of sin. The wages of sin is death, and we are all guilty, and no one gets another chance after death. The death of Christ has paid the price we cannot pay, but we must receive it, by faith. For those who repent and believe in Him, He gives, by His grace and mercy, eternal life, not just a future with Him, but an abundant and everlasting life in Him that begins the moment we believe and trust in His finished and perfect work on the Cross of Calvary, repenting of our sins, and receiving Him by faith.
Those in His Church, having received Him, and living in His righteousness as new creatures in Christ, not by our own strength, but through His Spirit within, are on mission for Him. We are to do His work and will in this world, not living a sinful lifestyle and doing our will, but that He might be glorified in all things. He has called us to holiness, as His ambassadors, as we minister to those around who are hurting and need. He has commanded us to love one another, as He loves us, and to give our lives for the brethren as we grow into the full measure of Him. He has commissioned us to His service as His witnesses, to share the Good News of forgiveness and reconciliation with our GOD, and as we go, proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all who will hear, repent, and believe that in believing they might have life in His Name.
For GOD is not willing that any should perish, but that all would come to repentance and the knowledge of the the Truth. Jesus loves you and wants to establish a covenant relationship with you that is real and personal. Surrender to Him on His terms and He will give you a brand new life of discipleship and fellowship with Him that is abundant and everlasting. GOD calls you to trust Him and what He has already done for you to pay your sIn debt. He has provided the only way of reconciliation with GOD, forgiveness from GOD, and Salvation through Jesus Christ, the Son of GOD who is GOD the Son, to give you a new life in Christ. Turn away from yourself and your sIn and turn to Him alone for eternal Life, now and always.
In Christ,
Jefferson Sweet