The children of Israel did that which was evil in the sight of Yahweh: and Yahweh delivered them into the hand of Midian seven years.
"Israel was brought very low ... they cried unto Jehovah"  (Judges 6:6).  Israel's punishment by the Lord, following their excursions into idolatry had the same effect over and over.  Apparently, the only lesson that Israel had learned thus far in their history, was that when things became unbearable, they always called upon Jehovah and He rescued them.