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God And Gideon - Judges 6-7

Verse:

Judges 7:19-21(KJV)

19 So Gideon and the hundred men who were with him came to the outpost of the camp at the beginning of the middle watch, just as they had posted the watch; and they blew the trumpets and broke the pitchers that were in their hands.

20 Then the three companies blew the trumpets and broke the pitchers—they held the torches in their left hands and the trumpets in their right hands for blowing—and they cried, “The sword of the LORD and of Gideon!”

21 And every man stood in his place all around the camp; and the whole army ran and cried out and fled.

Commentary from Papa JoeMac:

#27 - Leadership - Judges 6-7

There are three things which repeat throughout God’s Word. First, God uses common folks, just like you and I, to do His work. Gideon was a farmer. Joseph was a slave. Mary was a peasant girl. Peter was a fisherman. They were common folks who made themselves available to do God’s will. Are you available?

Second, God expects us to walk by faith; not by magic. Consider this - Jesus told the people if they didn’t believe what was written in God’s Word, they wouldn’t believe the miracles they were asking for even if they saw! If you tested God, and He delivered, would you believe what happened was of God?

Third, God raises leaders who have a servant’s heart! In today’s world, our ‘leaders’ rarely conform to God’s definition as so many are only interested in promoting themselves! Think of the people you believe to be true leaders and you’ll realize they lead – not for their own honor – but for the good of others!

When we study Gideon’s experience, we quickly see that Gideon fits the ‘mold’ when it comes to doing great things for God’s Kingdom and His will. He believed he had a good excuse for not serving God. Gideon told God that his clan was the weakest in the tribe of Manasseh and that he was the least in his family! But, Gideon wanted to do what was right for the Israelites. He simply didn’t know how. Just like many of us!

After the death of Joshua, the people had lost God’s favor because they had adapted practices that angered the Lord. As a result, they were subjected to harsh Midianite treatment. Gideon saw the poverty in his land. He knew the people’s troubles. He was discouraged and when the Angel of the Lord told him that he would lead the people against the Midianites, he had a hard time believing it! Gideon made requests of the angel. Then, Gideon made requests of God concerning the fleece and wanted proof. Gideon was afraid. God knew it. Gideon needed encouragement. God knew it. Gideon needed to know God was there. God knew it. I believe God wanted to show Gideon that He, God, was in control. Gideon then could clearly see the hand of God intervening. God reduced Gideon’s army to 300 people. I believe God responded in a positive manner because Gideon had the right attitude and motive. Gideon wanted to do the right thing and that is a trait of a great leader! Gideon was not looking for personal honor and glory.

How strange the tactics must have sounded to the soldiers! A ram’s horn and a lamp for weapons must have seemed crazy! Knowing God was on his side, Gideon proceeded to lead the people. God had chosen Gideon to lead and in turn, Gideon placed his faith in God. By Gideon’s doing so, the people saw Gideon’s goals were not for his own benefit but for those of the people. With Gideon leading them, the Israelites stood their positions around the Midianite camp and watched in amazement at the chaos that ensued! The battle was won! Afterwards, the people wanted to make Gideon their king but he refused by simply stating that “I will not rule over you, nor will my son. The Lord will rule over you.”

God still works this way throughout the world today. If you need encouragement – ask Him to encourage you. The Scriptures teach that we have not because we ask not! Go to the Father in prayer and ask Him to encourage you! If you feel the need to test Him, don’t – because God wants to love on you and show you His Majesty – He does not need to be tested.

Think of the people that you consider as “leaders”. They may lead small study groups, lead music, lead a group at work, lead a volunteer group, etc. Do you think these people are more gifted than you? Do you think they get up every morning knowing exactly what to do? They are just as Gideon was – and as you and I are today. We are human. We need encouragement. We must have faith, the same faith that Gideon had, to believe that God will fulfill His promises. We need to serve. We are each given a gift to help both the body of Christ and the lost. Is there an area in your life, family, church, town, etc. where heart-felt servant-hood leadership is needed? Is that leader you? Ask God to show you what you need to do. You may very well be a “Gideon”!