“And where are all His miracles which our fathers told us about?” Judges 6:13
Do you ever wonder, “Why doesn’t God seem to work as powerfully as He did in the past?” That’s what Gideon wondered as well. Like Gideon, we often long for the good old days but tend to romanticize the past. Every generation faces challenges. Gideon’s story reminds us that God works through people of faith, even when our faith is small.
Gideon had heard all the stories. He knew about all the miracles. His faith seemed small in comparison to figures like Moses and Joshua; and it was! Yet, Gideon ends up in God’s faith hall of fame (Hebrews 11:32). Even though he struggled with insecurity, doubt, and fear; the Lord knew who Gideon could be in the power of His Spirit (vv12, 34).
Many of us have a lot in common with Gideon. While we desperately want to see God at work in our nation, we can feel powerless to do anything about it. The solution to our nation’s spiritual problem is in the Lord’s answer, “Have I not sent you?” (v14).
When Gideon voiced his insecurities, God said, “I will be with you” (vv15-16). When Gideon requested a sign as confirmation, the Lord patiently agreed (vv17-18). And when Gideon’s doubt was replaced by fear, God gave assurance of His peace (vv22-24). But notice, Gideon didn’t wait until the fear was completely gone before acting in faith. He claimed God’s peace and moved forward in fearful obedience (v27). Each time he objected or hesitated, God met him where he was, giving his faith the opportunity to grow.
If we want this generation to see God at work, then we too must act, even when our faith is small. Is God leading you to do something that seems too big or intimidating? You may not feel like the obvious choice, but neither did Gideon. Remember, your insecurities are met by God’s presence, your doubt is overcome by God’s patience, your fears are calmed by God’s peace, and your potential is fulfilled by God’s Spirit.
Our faith grows as we learn to discern God’s voice and as we act on His instructions. So, let the stories from the good old days be an anchor to your spiritual heritage. Just make sure to have new stories about how God is working in and through you today. Your life can be a compass, pointing future generations to God’s faithfulness.