You made your own bed, now you have to lie in it." Most of us have heard that expression at some time or other, and in some form or fashion. Usually after we messed up and then complained about the consequences, because consequences can be cruel teachers. We heard it when we complain about uncomfortable results because of decisions that were obviously bad, or made against specific advice; times when we should have, or actually did, know better, and needed to learn to accept the consequences of our own choices.

After Abimelech’s short reign Israel obeyed God under a couple of other judges, Tola and Jair (Judges 10:1-5), but eventually they made their own bed by choosing to serve idols – again (Judges 10:6). It’s always that way when we sin – we think we’re free, doing our own thing, dancing to the beat of our own drum. What we don’t realize is that we’re enslaved by the same passions and pride as everyone else. We’re not unique and creative when it comes to sin, we’re just following a different crowd.

Usually when they got into trouble Israel would call on God and he would rescue them, but this time was different. When they called on God for help His answer was blunt – “cry to your new gods…let them save you” (Judges 10:11-14). Realizing the futility of that option they repented, put away the idols, and returned to God (Judges 10:15-16). Their repentance was genuine because they returned to God with no promise of deliverance – and He forgave them. They realized that serving God wasn’t a market exchange. Handing over the cash of faith and obedience to purchase divine rescue doesn't work. Serving God for his sake is a choice to trust and obey him no matter what.

God is waiting for us to do that today. He's waiting for us to trust and obey, to come to Him on His terms and He will forgive and cure our biggest problem – sin. Faith, repentance, and baptism are necessary before salvation is given. Not because he owes us anything, but because he is willing to save those of us who want to serve him. He will save you, if you will serve him. That's his demand, and your decision. Will you come to him or call on your idols?