Rev. Dr. Eural Alexander Ministries “Hour of Power: Daily Meditation”Theme on Gideon:
Title: Trusting God in Our Weakness
Greetings, beloved family in Christ! Today, we delve into the remarkable story of Gideon found in the Book of Judges, a narrative that beautifully illustrates how God uses the seemingly insignificant to accomplish His great purposes. Gideon’s journey from doubt to victory reminds us of the power of faith and the importance of trusting God, even when circumstances appear daunting.
The Call of Gideon
In Judges 6, we meet Gideon, a man who initially felt unworthy and fearful. The Israelites were oppressed by the Midianites, and Gideon was hiding in a winepress, threshing wheat. It was in this lowly state that the angel of the Lord appeared to him, saying, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior” (Judges 6:12, NIV). This statement is profound—it reveals God’s perspective on Gideon, highlighting that God sees potential where we might see weakness.
Like Gideon, many of us may feel inadequate or overwhelmed by our circumstances. Perhaps you can relate to Moses, who questioned his ability to lead the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 3:11). Or like David, who was the youngest and least expected to be chosen as king (1 Samuel 16:11). God often calls those who seem the least likely to fulfill His plans, showing us that His strength is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
The Selection of the Few
As the story unfolds, we see God instructing Gideon to gather an army to fight the Midianites. Initially, Gideon amassed 32,000 men, but God said, “You have too many men for me to deliver Midian into their hands” (Judges 7:2, NIV). God then instructed Gideon to reduce the number of soldiers, ultimately leaving him with only 300 men. This was a strategic move by God to ensure that the victory would be unmistakably attributed to Him.
This principle resonates throughout Scripture. In 1 Samuel 14:6, Jonathan, the son of Saul, took just his armor-bearer to face the Philistine army, declaring, “Nothing can hinder the Lord from saving, whether by many or by few.” Similarly, in the New Testament, Jesus fed 5,000 people with five loaves and two fish (John 6:9), demonstrating how God can multiply our offerings, no matter how small they may seem.
Trusting God’s Design
As we reflect on Gideon’s story, we are reminded that God designs our lives with purpose and intention. Each of us is uniquely equipped for the tasks He has set before us. In Jeremiah 29:11, God reassures us, saying, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Even when we feel outnumbered or ill-equipped, we can trust that God is at work, orchestrating a plan that is beyond our understanding. Just as He used Gideon’s small army to deliver Israel from oppression, He can use us to impact our families, communities, and beyond.
Encouragement from Other Biblical Characters
Let us draw encouragement from other Biblical characters who trusted God in their moments of weakness:
- Esther: A young orphan who became queen and risked her life to save her people, demonstrating courage in the face of danger (Esther 4:14).- Peter: A fisherman who denied Christ three times but later became a pillar of the early church (John 21:15-17). God transformed his failures into a powerful testimony of grace and redemption.- Mary: The mother of Jesus, who humbly accepted God’s call, despite the stigma and uncertainty it would bring (Luke 1:38).
Each of these individuals faced challenges that seemed insurmountable, yet through their faith and obedience, God accomplished His purposes. Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, on this 7th day of November 2024, we thank You for the powerful example of Gideon and the many faithful servants throughout Scripture who have shown us that Your strength is made perfect in our weakness. Help us to trust in Your divine design for our lives, even when we feel inadequate. May we have the courage to step out in faith, knowing that You are with us. Encourage our hearts today, Lord, and remind us that You can use even the smallest acts of obedience to bring about great victories. Fill us with hope and confidence as we seek to live for You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Now, let me assure you that we need you to join our ministry in prayer worship. So, we warmly invite you to join us for worship at New Light Family Christian Center. Our Sunrise Worship Service starts at 8:45 AM and runs until 11:00 AM. Come and experience the joy of fellowship, powerful worship, and the uplifting presence of God. Together, let’s celebrate the promises and possibilities that each day holds!
As we close, let us remember the words of Rev. Dr. Eural Alexander: “Live, Love, and Laugh this day, for this is the day of the Lord, and it is filled with ‘Promises and Possibilities.’”
May God bless you abundantly as you step forward in faith today!
