How can you trust God's presence when feeling inadequate, as Gideon did? Seeing Gideon’s Struggle Gideon is threshing wheat in a winepress—hiding from the Midianites, sure that he is the least qualified man in Israel. Into that fear the LORD speaks: “The LORD turned to him and said, ‘Go in the strength you have and save Israel from the hand of Midian. Am I not sending you?’” (Judges 6:14) God’s Two-Part Assurance in Judges 6:14 • “Go in the strength you have” — The strength Gideon already possessed was enough because God would multiply it. • “Am I not sending you?” — The sender’s authority guarantees the mission. God’s presence, not Gideon’s competence, is the decisive factor. Echoes Throughout Scripture • Exodus 3:12 — “I will surely be with you.” Spoken to Moses, another reluctant servant. • Joshua 1:9 — “Be strong and courageous… the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” • Isaiah 41:10 — “Do not fear, for I am with you… I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” • Matthew 28:20 — “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” • Hebrews 13:5 — “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” • 2 Corinthians 12:9 — “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” Why His Presence Trumps Your Inadequacy • His calling carries His enabling. • His power shows best through human weakness, ensuring He gets the glory. • His unchanging character anchors every promise; feelings fluctuate, He does not (Malachi 3:6). • His track record of faithfulness in Scripture underwrites His faithfulness to you today. Practical Steps to Lean on His Presence • Remember specific times He has helped you in the past; rehearse those victories. • Speak His promises aloud—faith grows by hearing (Romans 10:17). • Act on the light you have; obedience invites further assurance, just as Gideon’s first small steps led to larger victories. • Surround yourself with believers who will remind you of truth when doubt shouts loudest (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Replace self-defeating thoughts with Scripture; let God’s words define your identity and capabilities. Living Today in “the Strength You Have” You may feel outnumbered, underprepared, or overlooked, yet the same Lord who met Gideon in a winepress stands with you now. Move forward, however small the step, confident that the One who sends you also goes with you—and that is always enough. |
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