I love that we have the story of Gideon in the Bible. He is the poster child of transformation. Going from fearful farmer to valiant warrior, all because he had an encounter with the Lord.
I think what I love most about this story is God’s faithfulness. He lovingly encouraged Gideon each step of the way. The Lord didn’t become impatient or frustrated, instead He gave continued instruction and showed His commitment to direct Gideon and deliver Israel.
After Gideon asked the Lord for proof of His willingness to lead him and Israelites, Gideon stepped out with the army but look where they went.
“ Early the next morning, Gideon and his army got up and moved their camp to Fear Spring. The Midianite camp was to the north, in the valley at the foot of Moreh Hill. 2 The Lord said, “Gideon, your army is too big. I can’t let you win with this many soldiers. The Israelites would think that they had won the battle all by themselves and that I didn’t have anything to do with it. 3 So call your troops together and tell them that anyone who is really afraid can leave Mount Gilead and go home.” Judges 7:1-3 CEV
They went to “Fear” Spring. God had a purpose for going there; remove fear from the camp. Everyone that was afraid was sent home. Twenty-two thousand soldiers left, only ten thousand remained.
Fear is persistent. It tries to wear us down, it’s goal is to defeat us and keep us from being who God created us to be.
“God’s Spirit doesn’t make cowards out of us. The Spirit gives us power, love, and self-control.” II Timothy 1:7 CEV
“Christ gives me the strength to face anything.” Philippians 4:13 CEV
“ Where God’s love is, there is no fear, because God’s perfect love takes away fear. It is his punishment that makes a person fear. So his love is not made perfect in the one who has fear.” I John 4:18 ERV
God was not only working in Gideon’s life but also in the lives of the men who remained. The men needed to be alert, ready for battle.
“Gideon,” the Lord said, “you still have too many soldiers. Take them down to the spring and I’ll test them…6 Three hundred men scooped up water in their hands and lapped it, and the rest knelt to get a drink. 7 The Lord said, “Gideon, your army will be made up of everyone who lapped the water from their hands. Send the others home. I’m going to rescue Israel by helping you and your army of 300 defeat the Midianites.” Judges 7:3-7 CEV
Victory doesn’t come because of great numbers or worldly prestige. It comes from faith; trusting in God’s word and His purposes. It comes when we stand, firmly planted on God’s promises.
“ I’ve commanded you to be strong and brave. Don’t ever be afraid or discouraged! I am the Lord your God, and I will be there to help you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 CEV
Stand up to fear; we defeat it not in our own efforts but by placing our trust in our God who never fails!