Throughout our study of Come, Follow Me, we have seen unlikely heroes and leaders called from their youth, inexperience, and, in the case of Gideon, poverty. They become mighty and courageous as they step into the roles and positions God calls them. Can He do the same for us?
Considering Gideon, we see that he didn’t become a leader who defeated the massive Midianite army with only 300 men, overnight. We see him grow into it. Can we do the same?
Gideon’s story begins with him acknowledging a worry and concern for the Israelites. He recognized all was not well in Zion. Raised in a home where he saw his father participate in worshiping false Gods and sexual immorality. He didn’t have the advantage of a righteous home. Although concerned for the Israelites he felt limited because of his position in the community and lack of resources. He felt small against the enormity of the problem.
He destroyed the grove as the Lord commanded him, but was met with an angry mob for doing so. So angry that they wanted to kill him. Taking a public stand in obedience to God, led to ridicule and feeling attacked. But doing so also forged a new-found trust with God. His life was preserved. In that increased confidence he gathered an army but again hardship followed as he men fell away by the thousands and abandoned the fight. In the end, he led a small army of only 300 and with God’s help, saw a miraculous victory.
The battle today is pretty much the same. Standing for the truths of “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” may leave us feeling:
Concerned for our community in an increasingly wicked world.
Disadvantaged because of less than ideal home life.
Small against powerful forces.
Alone against mocking and angry mobs.
Abandoned by those leaving the fight.
But like Gideon, we have this promise from the Lord, “Surely I will be with thee” (Judges 6:16). Even out of our own obscurity, “God will take you as you are at this very moment and begin to work with you. All you need is a willing heart, a desire to believe, and trust in the Lord.” (Elder Dieter F Uchtdorf)
Art: Annie Henrie Nader