January 6, 2023

Passage Read: Judges 6-9
Meditation Verse: 8:18

Thought

So Gideon who was the smallest in his own eyes, when he believed the Lord and attacked the Midianites, was transformed in bearing to that like a prince. He was at first very timid, and asked for proof three times that the Lord was truly choosing him to lead Israel against their enemies and succeed. He called out an army after one proof, asked for two more and received them, then after whittling his army down to 300, God gave him a fourth sign without his asking. At that, all fear left Gideon and only faith and confidence remained. But when all was complete and the people asked him to rule over them, he refused because he knew it was the Lord alone who reigned over them. Sadly, after all that, the people still didn't get it and turned away from the Lord as soon as Gideon died.

Application

Trusting in God gives confidence that transforms a person from timid to bold and commanding. Knowing the Lord and His plans, trusting that God will do as He promised brings a confidence that makes the believer seem like a prince. Ah, but I don't know His plan for my life or for whatever church He leads us to. Is it growth or closure? I cannot predict and He has given me no word. But what I must trust and what should give me confidence is that every word He has shown is true and trustworthy, so I should trust the Bible and everything it teaches, and act in that confidence.