Are we filled with doubt?

Gideon was constantly living in fear in those times. He had to thresh his wheat in a winepress while hiding daily, out of sight from the Midianite raiders. Imagine his surprise when the Angel called him “a mighty warrior”. We can tell the weak and shaky state of his faith through the questions he asked the Angel in Judges 6:13.

“Gideon said to Him, “O my lord, if the Lord is with us, why then has all this happened to us? And where are all His miracles which our fathers told us about, saying, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up from Egypt?’ But now the Lord has forsaken us and delivered us into the hands of the Midianites.” (Judges 6:13)

Gideon probably had not felt God’s presence and protection in his life for a long time due to the uncertain and dangerous days he lived. He was dejected and questioned how he could play a part in delivering Israel from their enemies, knowing he was from the weakest clan and the least in his father’s house.  

Similarly, in times of trials and tribulations of life, we may also question God’s presence and power in our weak state of faith. We may even choose to stop searching for God and serving Him because of our disappointments. However, let us not fear and never forget our special status as children of God and how the Father constantly watches over us. 

Following the Angel’s encouragement, we can start to see the slow, increasing hope Gideon had in God. He willingly offered up a sacrifice for God and in return, witnessed miracles and signs that God was with him. He also eventually gained the courage to follow God’s instructions of destroying the altar of Baal.

Despite Gideon’s weak faith, God still called him to serve and do a part in Israel’s deliverance from her enemies. Before doing so, God gave Gideon what he needed – comfort, peace and assurance that He is with him. Today, we can also receive the same comfort and peace from God if we decide to draw nearer to Him and better understand His will from the bible. After receiving God’s help, let us remember that we must reciprocate by having a willing heart to serve and work for His kingdom. Gideon was small and weak, but he was ready to be a useful vessel for God. 

God can use even the weakest or smallest of us in mighty ways, are we ready to put aside our fear and say “Lord, we are able, our spirits are thine”?

Reflection questions: 

1. What can we learn from Gideon’s journey of faith to improve our attitudes when serving God? 

2. Do you feel unworthy or too weak to serve God in certain church work? What steps can you take to rely on God more to overcome these feelings?