Learn From Gideon, 51

~ Gideon Entered The Hall of Faith ~

The Biblical account of the life of Gideon provides for one of the most interesting character studies in all of Scripture.  In this series we are discovering practical lessons for living the Christian life today.  

Scripture  ~  “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.  For by it the elders obtained a good testimony.  …  “And what more shall I say?  For the time would fail me to tell of Gideon and Barak and Samson and Jephthah, also of David and Samuel and the prophets: who through faith subdued kingdoms, worked righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, became valiant in battle, turned to flight the armies of the aliens” (Hebrews 11:1-2, 32-34)

Learn From Gideon  ~  God calls and God rewards.

1. Gideon was faithful to what God called him to do.  It was not always easy.
1. Gideon was a very human hero.
2. He was a very reluctant warrior.
3. Gideon was a doubter who was strengthened by His God.  God can raise up a doubter for great kingdom work.
4. Gideon had to learn that his strength came from God—not the size of his army.  God reduced his massive army to “a few good men” (300).  In the process he had to trust God to downsize his army multiple times.
2. God looks beyond the way we are and sees what we can become. 
3. Even after being called by God Gideon continued to make excuses and question God.
4. Because of a growing faith and trust Gideon became courageous. 
5. Even though Gideon failed at times Gideon is listed in God’s “Hall of Fame” or more accurately God’s “Hall of Faith.” In fact, he is listed before King David.
6. Life on earth is preparation time for reigning time. 

Challenge For Us  ~  Are you fulfilling your calling? 

concluding comment  ~  We learn about Gideon primarily from Judges 6-8, but also Isaiah 9:1-7, and Hebrews 11:1-3, 32-34.

~ Robert Lloyd Russell, ABUNDANT LIFE NOW

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