Definition: Nevertheless the LORD raised up judges, which delivered them out of the hand of those that spoiled them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 2:16. It's a really important and somewhat surprising part of biblical storytelling! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: When people messed with the Israelites (and other people), God sent people to help them escape a bad situation. It wasn’t just about punishing the bad guys; it was about saving those people from being harmed. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Judges raised up judges…” : This means that God, through His power and will, chose individuals to be responsible for protecting and rescuing people. It wasn’t just a random act; He deliberately sent these people. “…which delivered them out of the hand of those that spoiled them.” : This is the key part. "Spoiled" means they were being abused, mistreated, or taken advantage of by others. The “hand” represents the people who were causing harm – maybe it was a tyrannical ruler, a greedy group, or someone else actively ruining lives. So, what does it really mean? It’s saying that God didn't just punish those who were hurting people. He chose to intervene and protect those who were being harmed. It shows His concern for the well-being of his people and a desire to restore balance. Why is this important? This verse highlights several things: God’s Sovereignty: It emphasizes that God has ultimate control over events, and He doesn't just passively watch things happen. He actively chooses to intervene. Justice and Protection: It speaks to a sense of justice – that God will not allow suffering to continue unchecked. Hope & Intervention: It offers hope because it shows that even when people make mistakes, God is still working to protect those who are vulnerable. In short, the verse tells us that God’s judgment isn't just about punishment; it's also about rescuing and protecting those who are suffering. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its significance within a specific biblical context (like the story of Samson)? Explore related verses that build on this idea?