God holds out the invitation to Gideon. Valour instead of fear. Thousands of enemies defeated, known as a hero everywhere, a champion among angel armies, doing it all with unshakeable confidence in God. Gideon, your future will look like this. But Gideon pauses, waiting for it all to make sense. It sounds a like a fantasy, not the Gideon he knows in his own mind. And never mind himself, what about the very real enemies out there with swords and banners? The fear’s out there, it’s real! And God holds out the invitation still.
Because He’s okay with Gideon coming as he is, doubts and all. Take a read of Gideon 6 again. Look at how Gideon’s scared even after He’s had a clear meeting with the Lord. God tells him to take down the false idols in his father’s land. Gideon’s so scared he goes out and does it at night so no one will see. But he does it. And God’s okay with it. Gideon’s so worried that it’s not really God speaking that he tests God two nights in a row. And God’s okay with it. Hesitatingly, stumblingly, Gideon discovers his own bravery, and his own willingness to respond to God’s voice. God’s chosen Gideon, and He has grace for that slow slide towards obedience. There’s nothing God can’t work with in you, even if you think you’re exempt from His kindness, or you’re the one just too scared and too doubting. It’s His pleasure to patiently make you brave.
What now?
Get familiar with the story of Gideon. Learn how God phases out fear from a fear-filled life.
