Gideon

There is a strong similarity between the spiritual condition of Western society today and that of Israel in the days of the Judges. We can learn from the people God used to give temporary deliverance to his people at that time. Before calling Gideon he sent a prophet to bring home to the people that they had sinned against him. Most people would prefer a political or military leader, but God was pointing to the source of the problem; he still does. He uses unlikely people to achieve great things. Gideon was a 'nobody', but God often uses such people. We also notice that God says what seems utterly unrealistic; he addressed Gideon as 'mighty warrior', which he was not, and said 'the LORD is with you' when everyone knew he had abandoned Israel to their enemies. Today we need to heed the Bible as well as circumstances, for the God of Gideon and the 12 spies is our God still. We may have to clean our own doorstep first - Gideon was ordered to address his father's idolatry. If we are not faithful in little things we cannot expect to achieve great things. God shows that victories are won by his strength alone - 'my grace is sufficient for you, my strength is made perfect in weakness'. contrary to expectations Gideon's father defended his son's action. Everyone in the army who was afraid was allowed to return home; and the numbers were reduced further so they could not take credit for the victory. We should be realistic, both about circumstances and about God's capability. This idea of God's power in our weakness is a theme of scripture. We see it in Jesus' miracles, in the power of the Bible, and the transformation of his apostles. We have an Almighty God.