Judges 6:11-27
The angel of the Lord appeared to [Gideon] and said to him, “The Lord is with you, you mighty warrior.” —Judges 6:12 (NRSVUE)
I love Bible stories like Gideon’s, where persons suddenly find themselves facing an enormous task that they don’t feel qualified for. Gideon’s initial response isn’t exactly faith-filled, but the angel of the Lord tells him he is a mighty warrior. Over the course of several encounters with the angel, Gideon’s faith grows to the point where he believes that God is going to help him do what God is asking, and he becomes that mighty warrior.
I can remember a time in my life when I felt God was calling me to leave the profession I was in and start on a new path of self-employment. There would be no regular hours and no guaranteed income. I would be learning how to get the business up and running with very limited experience, all at the age of 42. It was daunting but exciting! I trusted in God, and my family and I were blessed by my new work, as were my customers. Gideon also trusted God, and he and his family, along with all Israel, were blessed.
Prayer: Trustworthy God, help us to hear your voice when you call. Help us be obedient to you even when we feel unprepared to do what you are asking of us. And help us know that you are always with us. Amen.
Thought for the day: I can bless others by answering God’s call.
Lee Watson (England, United Kingdom)
