March 29, 2020: SOAP #3769:  Judges 6-7; Psalm 52; 1Corinthians 14

Scripture:  Judges (NIV) 6:14 The LORD turned to him and said, “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?” 15 “But Lord,” Gideon asked, “how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.” 16 The LORD answered, “I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites together.”

Observation:   It was a big assignment: “to save Israel out of Midian’s hand.”  It was a huge assignment for someone who had no standing, no potential in themselves, no following, and no resources.  But God was requiring from Gideon what He requires from everyone.  “Go in the strength you have…”   Gideon had to use the strength he had.  Could Gideon blow a trumpet?  Yes.  Could Gideon hold a lamp and pitcher in his hands?  Yes.  Gideon could do the little things God required.

Application:  I have what God requires.  I can do what God gives me to do.  My part in the ministry is something I can do.  Everything I cannot do is God’s part. God’s hand is moved by my faith.  Doing what I can do demonstrates my faith that God has spoken to me and He will do what I cannot do.  The investment of my time and resources is my faith being put into action.  This is not me trying to get God to do what I want Him to do, or what I think He should do. My faith must rest upon HIS Word, HIS plan, HIS directions to me.  The resources I do not have, He will provide.  When the assignment is complete, God graciously lets me enjoy the accomplishment.  I make sure He gets the glory!

Prayer:   Heavenly Father, what a privilege to partner with You in accomplishing Your will.  Doing Your will, I use the strength I have and You make up the difference.   Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!