The Vine - FastingSample

Devotion: Gideon’s army of 300 men is a narrative that is actually more about God’s deliverance than about Gideon’s ability or leadership skills. The Midianites were constantly defeated the Israelites and ransacked them, but God selected Gideon to lead an army to defeat them. However, God’s ultimate goal was to ensure that the Israelites knew it was He who delivered them and not because of their own strength. Thus, God only allowed 300 men to battle against an estimated 130,000 Midianites, and remarkably the men only brought trumpets, torches, and jars to the battle. God sent an army of 300 men armed not with weapons, but seemingly random objects, and miraculously delivered them from overwhelming and impossible situation. God ordained this whole encounter in order to ensure that all glory was attributed to Him, and not to man. Reflection: What overwhelming and seemingly impossible situations lay ahead for you in this coming year? How does Gideon’s narrative impact your perception of these situations? Gideon’s story was peppered with moments where he lacked faith, yet God still used him for mighty deeds. How does that encourage you? If God can use ordinary items for a miraculous victory, how much more can he use your seemingly ordinary gifts and talents? Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for your mercy and grace that would not only saved me, but also enables me to partner with you in order that you receive the glory and honor that is due to you. Grant me faith to trust that you can use my gifts for your victory. Nothing is impossible for you. In the name of Christ, amen.