18-19 When God was setting up judges for them, he would be right there with the judge: He would save them from their enemies’ oppression as long as the judge was alive, for God was moved to compassion when he heard their groaning because of those who afflicted and beat them. But when the judge died, the people went right back to their old ways—but even worse than their parents!—running after other gods, serving and worshiping them. Stubborn as mules, they didn’t drop a single evil practice.

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

The Message for Graduates - eBook
The Message for Graduates - eBook
Retail: $12.99
Our Price: $8.99
Save: $4.00 (31%)
The Message Full Size--soft leather-look, life-light black
The Message Full Size--soft leather-look, life-light black
Retail: $59.99
Our Price: $47.99
Save: $12.00 (20%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message The Book of Proverbs
The Message The Book of Proverbs
Retail: $4.99
Our Price: $4.19
Save: $0.80 (16%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message Large-Print Devotional Bible--soft leather-look, brown
The Message Large-Print Devotional Bible--soft leather-look, brown
Retail: $49.99
Our Price: $36.99
Save: $13.00 (26%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars