I love the story of Gideon. As I read it again, I am so encouraged at how God opens my eyes to new things and reveals what He wants to say to me, right now. Today’s reading of God’s Word made me evaluate my walk with God.
I’d love to give you a little backstory. Gideon was a Judge chosen by God. I think it’s so beautiful to see how God met Gideon right where he was at! At that time, Israel was doing evil things before God, and the Lord handed them to their enemies. Many Israelites would hide in caves or in the mountains when the enemy would come and destroy their crops, until they had nothing left. But then Israel cried out to God… I love this because when we realize we can’t do it… GOD CAN!
When they cried out to God, the Lord sent a prophet and said to them, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: I brought you up out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. I rescued you from the hand of the Egyptians. And I delivered you from the hand of all your oppressors; I drove them out before you and gave you their land. I said to you, ‘I am the Lord your God; do not worship the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you live.’ But you have not listened to me.”
God then revealed himself to Gideon. God’s faithfulness and love is far greater and goes beyond anything we can ever imagine! When we think it’s over, God is working behind the scenes until all things work out for our good. You see, God always has a way out for us! He does not leave us where He finds us. When we cry out and surrender, He hears and He answers. He is the lifter of our heads.
The Lord said to Gideon, ”Mighty hero, the Lord is with you!” God doesn’t see what we see. No, He sees you as you WILL be, not just who you are right now. During their conversation, Gideon said “Pardon me, my Lord, but how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.” And the Lord said, “I will be with you!”
I see so much of myself in Gideon’s insecurity.
Have you ever questioned God when He asks you to do something? Sometimes our initial response is “Wait…me? No, you got the wrong person, I can’t do that.” –Instead of responding, “Yes, Lord!” As I read, it made me aware that all He wants from us is our willingness and obedience. He wants you to trust Him, regardless of where He is leading you. Do not worry, just follow!
Gideon asked for several signs, and God answered and revealed himself with each request. At any point, God could have said, “Really, again?” But no, God answered each time! God sees it all, and if He sees an obedient heart, He will continue to pursue you and prove He is who He says He is. I’m guilty of being partially obedient because of my lack of trust. He wants you to say “yes” wholeheartedly and trust His leading.
What is God asking of you? What are the doubts and insecurities that are keeping you from doing everything He is asking of you? If you take the steps of faith and are obedient, God will establish you and give you a future that you never could have imagined. God rewards those who diligently seek Him! I challenge you to seek Him and do everything He is placing in your heart!
