And when the LORD raised them up judges, then the LORD was with the judge, and delivered them out of the hand of their enemies all the days of the judge: for it repented the LORD because of their groanings by reason of them that oppressed them and vexed them.
When the LORD raised up judges to lead them, the LORD was with each judge and rescued the people from their enemies during the judge's entire lifetime. The LORD felt compassion for them because of their cries of suffering under those who oppressed and troubled them.
God is showing that He compassionately responds to His people's suffering by raising up leaders to deliver them when they cry out for help.
📚 Historical Context
In the Book of Judges, which describes the period after Joshua's death when Israel was settling in the Promised Land, the Israelites repeatedly fell into cycles of disobedience by worshiping idols, leading to oppression from neighboring nations. God, in His mercy, responded by raising up judges, charismatic leaders like Deborah and Gideon, to deliver His people from their enemies. This verse specifically illustrates God's presence with these judges during their lifetimes, as He was moved by the Israelites' cries of distress under oppression.
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