Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. ~ Joshua 1:9
READING: Judges 6
Are you ever afraid? Are you afraid of failing in your ministry or of the criticism of people? Are you afraid of persecution? One of the Enemy’s most common attacks is “dis-courage-ment.” He sucks the courage right out of us and replaces the void with fear. Fear causes paralysis. And, if we are not careful, the Enemy can win.
What we need is COURAGE to overcome our fears and move forward in our ministry. In Judges 6, God allowed the powerful Midianites to invade Israel. When the Israelites cried out to God for help, He responded by seeking out Gideon.
God told Gideon, “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?” (v. 14).
“Pardon me, my lord,” Gideon replied, “but how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family” (v. 15). He was fearful because he had no power.
The LORD answered, “I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites, leaving none alive” (v. 16).
It is a credit to Gideon that he did not just say, “No.” Instead, he dialogued with God and confirmed His instruction by means of the fleece. Gideon became confident that God was with him and would save Israel by his hand. God’s presence gave Gideon courage. He routed the vast Midianite army using just 300 men.
God’s presence is also your courage and mine. When you are afraid, get closer to God through his Word and submit to the Holy Spirit’s leading in your life. The Lord is with you, too, wherever you go!
Father, Give me courage to go in the strength I have. Amen.
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