Arise, valiant warrior

In the book of Judges, we read of a man named Gideon. He lived under the oppressive rule of the Midianites a few thousand years ago.

In fact, his own nation was taken captive and he remained under harsh conditions for seven years.

Whenever his countrymen would plant the surrounding countries would come and steal the crops and the livestock.

The account in Judges is very detailed. Hundreds of thousands of pillagers and marauders would come and destroy everything.

The people of that day were reminded of a promise that was given to them by God. It was promised that God would protect them and provide for them as long as they remained faithful to the commands that were given to them.

Israel did not follow the commandments of God and were given over to slavery. That is where we pick up with Gideon.

The Israelites called out to God in their distress and God answered them. One day as Gideon was hiding down in a wine press beating the wheat that he harvested, and angel of the Lord appeared to him and addressed him in this way: “Arise, valiant warrior.”

Gideon’s response was one of disbelief. Gideon lamented that his people were enslaved and if God was with them how did all this and why did all this happen.

The angel did not respond to the lament but continued and instructed Gideon to go free the nation of Israel. Gideon again was in disbelief.

As you read this account in the sixth chapter, you see something that is extremely common with people who find themselves in desperate situations. They can only see the circumstance and cannot see the victory.

Think about the times that you have found yourself in a situation that is overwhelming. You cannot seem to find the way out and eventually, you believe it to be your lot in life.

My friends, it does not have to be. The angel in this story was addressing Gideon from God’s perspective not Gideon’s.

In Gideon’s eyes he was the weakest man from the weakest clan. But in God’s eyes, he was a valiant warrior.

Gideon saw no way that he would ever be able to defeat the Midianites and their army of hundreds of thousands, but the angel said go in the strength you have, and I will deliver them to you.

An old gospel song that was sung long ago says it so simple and beautiful. Little is much when God is in it.

With Jesus Christ we can run the race and not just run but win. With Jesus Christ we can experience hardship and pain but have total healing and freedom through him.

Our identity is not governed by the will or opinions of people. Our identity is determined by God Almighty. He is the sovereign, great, I AM. We can walk in holy confidence and battle whatever comes our way.

Today, if you find yourself in the midst of a difficult situation, stop, take a breath, lift your eyes toward Heaven and pray for the Lord to let you see yourself as HE sees you.

Ask the precious Holy Spirit to speak to you and confirm the father’s love and purpose for your life.

Lastly, go and be active. Follow through with humility and obedience. You don’t have to be afraid.

God wants you to have confidence. It is a daily decision.

Gideon asked God to give him signs and confirm things to him. The Lord is so awesome that he will do that for you as well. The Lord wants a close relationship with you.

If you don’t have one with him, take this moment and begin to ask God to forgive you and begin the conversation with Him. He wants to listen to you, and he also wants to speak to you as well.

Arise valiant warrior. If you do not have a church home, we’d love to have you visit us. We would be honored to walk this journey with you. Sunday morning at 10 a.m. you are invited to worship with us and find out more about Jesus. 1602 E. Washington St. Look forward to meeting you.