“…But I will be with you, and you shall strike the Midianites as one man.” – Judges 6:16 (NLT)
Gideon was an ordinary man living in challenging times, feeling weak and inadequate for the tasks ahead. When God called him to deliver Israel from the Midianite oppression, Gideon hesitated, questioning his own strength and the odds stacked against him.
God’s response was simple yet powerful: “…The Lord is with you, O mighty man of valour” (Judges 6:12 – ESV). Despite Gideon’s doubts, God saw beyond his limitations and knew that with His help, even an ordinary person could accomplish the extraordinary.
In Judges 7, Gideon started with over thirty-two thousand men but was reduced to just three hundred – an exceedingly small army compared to the Midianite forces. Yet, through God’s guidance and strategy, Gideon and his small band achieved a miraculous victory.
God specialises in using what is ordinary to accomplish the extraordinary. Our limitations, doubts, and small beginnings do not hinder God’s plans. We can overcome significant challenges by trusting His strength and obeying His instructions. Today:
- Trust that God can use your seemingly ordinary talents and resources for His purpose.
- When facing overwhelming circumstances, remember that God’s presence makes the difference.
- Be willing to step out in faith, even if your efforts seem small or insufficient. God can multiply and bless what you offer.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for choosing to work through ordinary people like Gideon. Help me to trust in Your power rather than my own weaknesses. Strengthen my faith to believe that with You, I can overcome any obstacle. Use my life for Your extraordinary purposes, and may I always remember that Your presence is my greatest strength. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Read: Psalm 147:4-5; Philippians 4:13
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 118:1-16; Colossians 2:6-23; Jeremiah 11:18-23; Jeremiah 12; Jeremiah 13