What steps can we take to strengthen our faith during challenging times? Setting the Scene: Hidden Strongholds and Heavy Hearts “The power of Midian prevailed against Israel, and because of Midian the Israelites made hiding places for themselves in the mountains, caves, and strongholds.” (Judges 6:2) Israel was pressed so hard that they retreated underground—quite literally. When life drives us into figurative caves, Gideon’s story shows concrete ways to step back into the open with renewed faith. Step 1: Admit the Battle, but Refuse to Bow • Judges 6:2 reminds us the oppression was real; pretending it isn’t only prolongs fear. • Faith starts with honest assessment: “Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power” (Ephesians 6:10). Strength is needed because the fight is real. • Acknowledging the enemy’s weight positions us to experience the Lord’s greater strength (Psalm 18:2). Step 2: Leave the Cave and Speak to God • Gideon drifted out of hiding to thresh wheat—small, risky obedience that put him where the angel could meet him (Judges 6:11–12). • Bring hidden anxieties into the open with the Lord: “Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). • Pouring out fears breaks their silent power (Psalm 142:5–7). Step 3: Remember the Lord’s Track Record • God immediately reminded Gideon of past deliverance (Judges 6:13). • Review personal testimonies and biblical ones: – “Do not be afraid; remember well what the Lord your God did” (Deuteronomy 7:18–19). – David: “The Lord who delivered me… will deliver me” (1 Samuel 17:37). • Rehearsing history fuels present confidence—“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). Step 4: Receive a Fresh Word from Scripture • Gideon’s faith rose when he heard, “The Lord is with you, O mighty warrior” (Judges 6:12). • “So faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). • Daily time in Scripture converts information into conviction. Step 5: Obey the First Clear Instruction • Before facing Midian, Gideon had to tear down his father’s Baal altar (Judges 6:25–26). • Small, immediate obedience often unlocks larger victories. • “Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much” (Luke 16:10). Step 6: Worship in Weakness • Gideon built an altar and named it “The Lord Is Peace” (Judges 6:24) while Midianites still roamed free. • Praise realigns focus: “I will bless the Lord at all times” (Psalm 34:1). • God’s power is perfected in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9–10). Step 7: Walk in Spirit-Empowered Boldness • “Go in the strength you have… Have I not sent you?” (Judges 6:14). • “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,” says the Lord (Zechariah 4:6). • “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7). Quick Faith-Strengthening Toolkit • Start every morning with a brief reading from Psalms and Gospels. • Keep a “remember journal” of answered prayers and past rescues. • Memorize one verse a week; recite it during stressful moments. • Fast from voices that feed fear—news overload, negative conversation. • Serve someone in need; outward focus quiets inward panic. • End each day listing three evidences of God’s care. Verses to Memorize When the Cave Feels Close • Judges 6:12 – “The Lord is with you, O mighty warrior!” • Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” • Psalm 27:1 – “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” • Romans 8:37 – “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” |
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