What can we learn from Gideon's obedience to God's unusual instructions? Setting the Scene Gideon is threshing wheat in secret when “the Angel of the LORD” appears and calls him to rescue Israel. Before the mission begins, the Angel gives a small but revealing test: “Take the meat and the unleavened bread, place them on this rock, and pour the broth over them.” And Gideon did so. (Judges 6:20) The Unexpected Command • A meal—prepared in scarcity—is to be spread out on a rock and soaked. • For a fledgling deliverer, this defies common sense; food was precious under Midianite oppression. • Yet the Lord often asks for what appears illogical to human reasoning (Isaiah 55:8–9). Gideon’s Immediate Obedience • No delay, debate, or alternative suggestion: “And Gideon did so.” • The act becomes the hinge for the fire-sign that follows (Judges 6:21), confirming God’s call. • Obedience preceded understanding; revelation followed submission. Lessons for Today • God tests faith in the small before entrusting the great. • True faith accepts God’s wisdom without demanding explanation. • Obedience can cost something valuable—time, resources, reputation. • Heaven’s confirmation is often waiting on earth’s compliance. • Simple acts done God’s way invite divine power into ordinary moments. Scriptural Echoes of Obedience • Noah “did everything that God commanded him” (Genesis 6:22). • Joshua marched silently for seven days (Joshua 6:2–5,20). • Naaman dipped seven times, though the Jordan seemed unimpressive (2 Kings 5:10–14). • Peter let down the nets “at Your word” and hauled in abundance (Luke 5:5–6). The pattern remains: unusual instruction followed by willing action releases God’s intervention. Fruit of Trusting God’s Ways • Assurance—fire consumes Gideon’s offering, settling his doubts (Judges 6:21–24). • Alignment—obedience aligns the servant with God’s unfolding plan. • Authority—Gideon moves from hidden fear to Spirit-empowered leadership (Judges 6:34). • Impact—one man’s obedience becomes the catalyst for national deliverance. Walking It Out • Listen closely; God still speaks through Scripture and Holy Spirit promptings. • Act promptly; delayed obedience is practical disobedience. • Hold resources loosely; everything surrendered becomes a platform for God’s glory. • Expect confirmation; God honors faith that moves at His word. |
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