How can we respond to God's call with courage, as Gideon did? The Spirit’s Empowering Presence Judges 6:34 — “So the Spirit of the LORD came upon Gideon, and he blew the ram’s horn, and the Abiezrites rallied behind him.” • “Came upon” literally pictures the Spirit clothing Gideon—wrapping weakness in heavenly strength. • The same Spirit who hovered at creation (Genesis 1:2) and raised Jesus (Romans 8:11) indwells believers today, equipping us for any assignment. • Courage, then, is never self-generated; it is Spirit-given. Hearing and Trusting the Call • Gideon first met the LORD while threshing grain in hiding (Judges 6:11). God called him “mighty warrior” before a single sword was lifted (v. 12). • Romans 10:17 — “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” God’s word births courage. • When Scripture names us “more than conquerors” (Romans 8:37) we accept that title by faith, not feelings. Admitting Fear, Moving Forward • Gideon voiced his doubts (Judges 6:15). God did not shame him; He promised His presence (v. 16). • Joshua 1:9 — “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous… for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” • Courage is not the absence of fear; it is obedience in spite of fear because God goes with us. Taking the First Step of Obedience • Gideon tore down the Baal altar at night (Judges 6:27). Small, hidden obedience prepared him for public leadership. • Luke 16:10 — “Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much.” • Blow the “ram’s horn” God puts in your hand today—make the call, confess the sin, serve the neighbor. Obedience unlocks fresh strength. Sustaining Courage for the Battle • Judges 7:2-7 shows God trimming Gideon’s army so victory could only be credited to Him. Expect God to remove props that compete with reliance on Him. • 2 Timothy 1:7 — “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” • Psalm 27:1 — “The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” Rehearse God’s character; courage is renewed. Living Clothed by the Spirit Today • Daily invite the Spirit’s filling (Ephesians 5:18). • Stay in the Word; it strengthens resolve (Psalm 119:28). • Walk in community; Gideon’s trumpet gathered allies (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Give God the glory after every victory (Judges 7:18). Clothed by God’s Spirit, hearing His call, obeying step by step—we can answer today exactly as Gideon did: with Spirit-powered courage. |
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