Thursday, April 26

THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2018

"The angel of the Lord came and sat down under the oak in Ophrah that belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, where his son Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to keep it from the Midianites.  When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, 'The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.'" (Judges 6:11,12)

The Book of Judges highlights Israel's wandering relationship with God and the perils of abandoning His plan.  In Chapter 6, Israel faces existential threats from the Midianites, owing to their unfaithfulness to God's Word.  Just as the people cry out, God raises up Gideon as a "mighty warrior," even though, at the start of his account, we find him hiding and threshing wheat.

From the beginning of his service, Gideon seeks confirmation that the Lord has indeed spoken with him and set him apart for the task ahead.  Unlike doubters who question God's plan and purpose, Gideon's genuine seeking of confirmation receive God's reply.  And his faith subsequently grows.

From this chapter, we see God's compassion for His people and His eagerness to become involved in their rescue.  We also see the religious competition that had overwhelmed Israel, as Baal worship became prevalent in a few short years after the people entered the land.  At the heart, however, we witness God's equipping of those servants whom He calls.

Do you have clarity as to God's call for your life?  Where is He leading you?  How has He equipped you for that purpose?  Where do you need to trust Him more?

Lord God, thank You for Your reckless love for us and Your pursuit of Your people.  Thank You that You equip those whom You have called.  Thank You for giving us each unique callings and preparing us for them.  Make our hearts and minds more sensitive to Your intentions for us.  Strengthen us so that we may honor You completely.  In Jesus's Name, amen.

"Reckless Love" by Cory Asbury:  https://youtu.be/Sc6SSHuZvQE