Man up! Where’s the Testosterone?

The book of Judges offers people so much knowledge and cool stories that one would be hard pressed to find as much excitement in a children’s book. Swords being swallowed by fat stomachs, women killing generals with tent pegs and regular soap opera romances revolving around long hair and testosterone. This book is not lacking in the battles, fights, romance, “drama” and the testosterone department. The term “Man Up” would be an understatement.
As fascinating as this book is, what truly separates it from the other books of the bible is its honesty in telling us God’s Will. For centuries, many have asked “What should I do with my life?” and the book of Judges is very clear about answering that very question. In fact, the characters and nations involved in this book frequently ask the same question every time something doesn’t go their way. The answer is easy: God’s will is to follow His word and have a relationship with Him! It doesn’t get much easier than that. Sorry all you Staples “Easy Button” fans out there, but it is that simple. Do what God says. However, throughout the book, we read that “each man did as he thought best.” This statement is not only the pinnacle for the current trend in our 21st century colleges, but it represents Postmodernism at its most pure form: You do what you want, I do what I want, just don’t bother me or get in my way. Not only are American kids being taught this “religion,” but we can see that while people get to do whatever they want, they are either less satisfied or unsure of what to make of their life. What further elevates Judges and its importance is the fact that the more people do what they want, the worst the situation of their nation becomes. The only thing that saves them is “crying out to God.” Interesting. God’s will is not only explicit, but when we cry out to Him, answers become clear, solutions are given, and most importantly, consequences must be faced head on—with testosterone! God frequently gives explicit answers to the nation of Israel and the servants and judges of them. Leaders such as Barek, Gideon, Samson and Deborah all had literal messages from God. Most importantly, people (the judges, average citizens and enemies of Israel) KNOW where they should be in life…there is no guessing or acceptance of sin: Life becomes a little more clear and meaningful. So, next time you read about a man chopping up a woman and sending it to all the nations, remember that God’s Will for our life is very simple: Follow His Word and be ready to MAN UP when He responds. It must be a spiritual conviction, dear reader, if we are to avoid a “life of quiet desperation.”