Judges 19

v1-10: “When people want to enjoy being away from home for a long time where there is nothing to do, it is a sign that they either have little to do at home or do not want to do what has to be done.” A desire to fulfil your duties is good quality to have.

v11-15: As the day was ending, the Levite and his concubine began to think about where they would stay the night. May this prompt us to “think about where we will spend eternity when we observe the daylight of our lives is coming to an end.”

v16-21: The Levite was provided for with everything he needed by one of God’s people. This is often the way in which God provides, by raising up “friends for his people… in one way or other.”

v22-30: The instructions given as an assembly of Israelites was called to discuss what should be done about the wickedness of the tribe of Benjamin provide us with some good principles to follow when dealing with serious and difficult matters. First, “let everyone withdraw and consider the matter impartially, seriously, calmly, and fully in their own thoughts, without prejudice on either side, before they speak about it.” Second, “let them talk it over freely, and let everyone take the advice of their friends, to know their thoughts and reasons, and to weigh them up carefully.” Third, “let everyone speak their mind and give their vote according to their conscience.”