Judges 1:1 ‘After the death of Joshua…’
The two books of Joshua and Judges begin with two very symbolic pictures in the death of two very symbolic characters. Firstly we read that the events in the book of Joshua occur ‘after the death of Moses’. Moses is forever associated with the law of God , and as such is a picture here showing that entry into the Promised Land can only occur after his death. This speaks to us of the utter stupidity of legalism and trying to live and approach God through the ‘good works’ of the flesh.
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called that place Bochim.’
Gilgal was to be rallying point - a headquarters if you will, for the people of God to strike their enemies and gain God's promised territory...however, because of rebellion and carnality, it transformed into a place of weeping, (Bochim); this means 'The place of weeping'
Gilgal is incredibly significant to us even today because it was in Gilgal where 1) The memorial stones were established (Josh. 4: 19-24)...2) The knife of circumcision was used on the men AGAIN! Josh. 5: 2-9....3) Spiritual progression was continued...the Passover was celebrated there also (Josh. 5: 10)
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So what is your current situation? Do you currently have the benefit of dwelling at Gilgal or, like Israel in the book of Judges, have you moved to Bochim ‘the place of weeping’. Bochim is the place that you end up when you have forgotten to take God into account! It is the place where your eyes are focused on yourself and your situation from an earthly point of view. And that will always be the place of weeping! But when you dwell at Gilgal the peace of God will fill your heart and mind because you consider yourself alive to God, His very own possession, and little else matters! The creator and sustainer of the universe is also your Father, and He will do what is right! You don’t need to know all the details or constantly question what He is doing, for you know that He his good, and that in love He will work all things for your good.