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A God for Scaredy-Cats

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How gracious of God to leave us stories that show who He is and how He operates—in spite of us. Scripture gives us instructive, encouraging, and even warning stories about Bible “heroes” who are a hot mess—jars of clay through which God’s mighty power is displayed.


Have you ever wailed something like, “If you love me, God, why is this happening?!”


Gideon had every reason to be discouraged when the angel of the Lord appeared, urging him to battle the invading forces. After all, he and the rest of Israel were in a bind of their own making. Hadn’t they done evil and reaped the consequences—oppression by the ruthless Midianites? As the self-proclaimed fearful runt of his small clan, Gideon seemed totally outgunned.


But—and it’s a big one—BUT God!

God was with Gideon. His only contribution was faith and a willingness to obey, even while trembling.

In recovery we say:

F.E.A.R. = Face Everything And Recover

and

False Evidence Appearing Real


I’ve lived it, and I can testify—it’s true!


For Gideon, it looked bad. It looked impossible. And Gideon seemed like an unlikely hero.


Despite an angel’s visitation, Gideon admitted his fear, questioned repeatedly, and asked for confirmation again and again. God indulged him—patiently comforting him with signs and wonders, even as He stripped down the odds of victory.


When God urged Gideon to step out against all odds, under-resourced and overwhelmed, Gideon obeyed—initially hiding and trembling. God stripped away any illusion of self-reliance so Gideon would know that the victory belonged to God alone.


As Gideon faced each new challenge, even while afraid, he grew braver and bolder until he ultimately triumphed over the Midianites.


God led me to Gideon’s story as I prayed over a situation beyond my bravery, strength, or resources. Reflecting on his experience helped me reclaim confidence to entrust everything back to God.


Reflection:

Are you facing a challenge that feels too big for you? Be like Gideon. Be honest with God. Ask for assurance. Stay willing. And above all—trust and obey.

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“We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves...” — 2 Corinthians 4:7-12 (NLT)

PRAYER

Sometimes the circumstances in our lives—or the world—feel too big for us to handle. Please remind us, Lord, that we never face anything alone. You have solutions we can’t even imagine. You are Almighty God—on our side not because of our performance or perfection, but because of Your love, grace, and mercy coupled with our honest willingness and obedience. Help us to trust You more. In Christ’s name I ask it. Thank You. I love You. 💖


P.S. While Gideon rose to the occasion, he may have gotten a bit puffed up—collecting gold to make an ephod that Israel soon worshiped. Once again, they forgot God’s rescue through Gideon’s obedience. Another reminder that our hearts drift easily when success replaces surrender.




 
 
 

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