Judges 8:34

The Israelites failed to remember the LORD their God who had delivered them from the hands of all their enemies on every side.

Study Bible

The Israelites failed to remember
This phrase highlights a recurring theme in the Book of Judges: the cycle of forgetfulness and disobedience among the Israelites. Throughout Judges, the Israelites repeatedly forget God's past deliverances and fall into idolatry and sin. This forgetfulness is not merely a lapse in memory but a willful neglect of God's commandments and covenant. It serves as a warning about the dangers of spiritual complacency and the importance of continual remembrance and gratitude.

the LORD their God
The use of "LORD" in all capital letters signifies the covenant name of God, Yahweh, emphasizing His personal relationship with Israel. This relationship is foundational to Israel's identity and history, as God chose them as His people and delivered them from Egypt. The phrase underscores the gravity of Israel's forgetfulness, as it is not just any god they are neglecting, but their covenant God who has shown them steadfast love and faithfulness.

who had delivered them
This refers to God's repeated acts of salvation throughout Israel's history, particularly during the Exodus and the conquest of Canaan. The term "delivered" is significant, as it denotes God's active intervention in rescuing His people from oppression and danger. This deliverance is a central theme in the Old Testament, foreshadowing the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, who saves humanity from sin and death.

from the hands of all their enemies
The phrase "from the hands of all their enemies" indicates the comprehensive nature of God's deliverance. In the context of Judges, this includes various oppressors such as the Midianites, Canaanites, and Philistines. Each deliverance was a demonstration of God's power and faithfulness, reinforcing His role as the protector and defender of Israel. This also points to the spiritual reality of God delivering His people from spiritual enemies, a theme echoed in the New Testament.

on every side
This phrase emphasizes the totality and completeness of God's protection. The Israelites were surrounded by hostile nations, yet God provided deliverance on every side, showcasing His omnipotence and sovereignty. It serves as a reminder of God's ability to protect and sustain His people in all circumstances, a truth that is applicable to believers today who face various trials and adversities.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gideon (Jerubbaal)
A judge of Israel who led the Israelites to victory over the Midianites with God's guidance. His leadership is central to the events leading up to Judges 8:34.

2. Israelites
The people of God who repeatedly fell into cycles of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance throughout the Book of Judges.

3. Midianites
The oppressors of Israel during Gideon's time, whom God delivered into Gideon's hands.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who delivered them from their enemies and expected their faithfulness in return.

5. The Land of Canaan
The promised land where these events took place, a land given to the Israelites by God, yet filled with challenges and temptations.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Forgetfulness
Forgetting God's past deliverances leads to spiritual decline and disobedience.

The Importance of Remembrance
Regularly recalling God's faithfulness strengthens our faith and commitment to Him.

The Cycle of Sin and Deliverance
Recognize the patterns of sin in our lives and seek God's deliverance and guidance.

Faithfulness to God
Our response to God's deliverance should be ongoing faithfulness and obedience.

The Role of Leadership
Godly leaders, like Gideon, play a crucial role in guiding people back to God, but ultimately, each person is responsible for their relationship with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we actively remember God's past deliverances in our daily lives, and why is this important?

2. In what ways do we see the cycle of sin and deliverance in our own lives, and how can we break free from it?

3. How does the account of Gideon encourage us to trust in God's power rather than our own strength?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure that we remain faithful to God, even when life is going well?

5. How can we support and encourage our leaders in the church to remain faithful to God's calling, and what role do we play in this?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14
The deliverance of Israel from Egypt, highlighting God's power and faithfulness, similar to His deliverance from the Midianites.

Deuteronomy 8
A reminder to Israel to remember the LORD and His commandments, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and obedience.

Psalm 78
A recounting of Israel's history, including their forgetfulness and God's continued faithfulness.

1 Samuel 12
Samuel's reminder to Israel of God's deliverance and the call to serve Him faithfully.

Hebrews 2
A New Testament exhortation to pay attention to what we have heard, so we do not drift away, paralleling Israel's forgetfulness.