The book of Ruth, set in the time of the Judges, takes us to some unlikely places. It is a narrative told with care and sensitivity-- pointing us to a central theme in God's unfolding plan to redeem and save his people. Vanessa Hughes leads us in this devotional for Growing Disciples.

The book of Ruth, set in the time of the Judges, takes us to some unlikely places. It is a narrative told with care and sensitivity-- pointing us to a central theme in God's unfolding plan to redeem and save his people. Vanessa Hughes leads us in this devotional for Growing Disciples.

Judges is a book that says leadership matters. It says that we need people to help us stay close to God. Not just pastors and priests, but leaders who can organise, initiate, defend and protect. Leaders who will keep us on track, in line, on course'�and above all, faithful to God. It raises the question: would Israel be better off with a King?

The narrative of Gideon the Judge shows that God's power is made perfect in weakness. And yet, it also shows us there is a fundamental problem with the people of Israel. They cannot seem to remain faithful to God. Another kind of leader, and another kind of leadership, is needed.

What are we to make of the Judges? Are we supposed to see Jesus in them? Are we meant to emulate their deeds? Are the Judges actually '�good'; heroes worthy of our accolades? This devotional suggests that the point of the Judges narratives is much simpler.

Joshua leads the army and nation with great success, although there are many mis-steps and disobedient episodes along the way. The book of Joshua is characterised by military victories and conquest, but the greater battle always seems to be loyalty to God and obedience to his laws and his ways.