The children of Israel were to keep themselves separated from the other nations but, by intermarrying with the different nations around them, they had compromised and taken on their abominations. The answer for them, though it might seem harsh, was to separate from their heathen marriages.
The Jews had been taken captive because of their disobedience. Here, they return to the Promised Land and begin to rebuild the city of Jerusalem. They begin with the Temple—the place of worship. Later, Ezra restores spiritual purity to their obedience. Finally, Nehemiah rebuilds the walls for protection.
Samuel’s rule as judge was not without its problems. His sons fell short of Samuel’s example and the people demanded a king.
People today have no concept of loyalty. We are wishy-washy. Today you love something and tomorrow you will hate it. We make decisions quicker than you can blink and then forsake them just as fast. The bad thing is that this has rolled over into our relationship with God.
What is the righteousness of God? As with many truths in scripture, it has meaning beyond the obvious. And, as with the truth of God’s word, its meaning is eternally important and has the power to save and to sanctify us.
