S) "31 So they set up for themselves Micah’s graven image which he had made, all the time that the house of God was at Shiloh."
Judges 18:31 (NASB)
O) As we read this story, it is clear that the Danites were not the good guys. One theme I saw, in reading this chapter, is that of isolation. Isolation allowed the people in the hill country to be easily conquered. Isolation allowed the priest to be convinced to betray his master (even though his place there was already maligned). Isolation allowed the initial five spies to be tempted by Micah's possessions. In the end, the Isolation of this entire tribe of Dan, meant that they were unfaithful to the LORD. They were serving idols (stolen ones, at that!), all while their own true, living, jealous, loving God was available to them at Shiloh.
A) Isolation is a dangerous thing. There are three isolations in the story, each of them with their own caution to me. First is a personal isolation, that really allows idols to be set up in my heart. This will cause me some pretty direct, possibly severe consequences, the greatest of which is in conflict with the LORD. Second is a small group isolation, that allows for traded rationalizing. As a leader, the onus is on me to correct course. This might look like my wife and I both being lazy, and using the inaction of the other as an excuse to not take action ourselves. This might look like complacency within my Life Group, because everyone is comfortable with a shallow, guarded relationship, where nobody is willing to be the first to step out in vulnerability. Whatever the case, I must lead by example. Third, there is a corporate isolation. This last form of isolation is akin to the local church failing to get involved where they should, or failing to have relationships with other churches where they should. This is really about the leadership I am choosing to be under. If I am choosing to join myself with a congregation that has poor leadership, I am asking for trouble. At the same time, I have an obligation and a vested interest in praying for, and supporting, the leadership that is over me.
P) Father, Your designs and plans are perfect. You have no flaw in Your purpose. You created me to be in relationship, first with You, then with others close, then with a larger community. Help me to correctly see the dangers of isolation, as I am at risk of becoming isolated. Open my eyes and ears, and lead me in right relationships. Help me to take the lead where I should, with courage and wisdom. Let Your will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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