Gideon: From Weakling to Victor

“Then the Lord turned to him and said, ‘Go with the strength you have,and rescue Israel from the Midianites. I am sending you!’ ‘But Lord,’ Gideon replied, ‘how can I rescue Israel? My clan is the weakest in the whole tribe of Manasseh, and I am the least in my entire family!’ The Lord said to him, ‘I will be with you. And you will destroy the Midianites as if you were fighting against one man.’” (Judges 6:14-16, NLT)

Gideon’s initial reaction to God’s call was to disqualify himself on the basis of his family and his own inadequacy. ‘We’re the weaklings,’ he said. ‘I am the least of them all.’

Although God had already told Gideon that he was a strong, mighty warrior, his view of himself was the exact opposite. He insecurely replied, ‘How can I?’

The Lord comforted him with two promises: His presence and the certainty of victory. Proving His word, Judges chapters 6 and 7 record that God indeed was with Gideon, and the Israelites were given a complete and powerful victory.

Jesus was undaunted by Gideon’s previous weakness; and so He called him higher, believing that he was more. Consequently, Gideon became the man of valor he was fashioned to be. As Gideon walked in faith and obedience, he grew in courage and strength.

When you consider your family, your background, or your failures, do you think that God could never use you? That’s the opposite of the truth! Jesus says His strength is made perfect in your weakness (see 2 Corinthians 12:9).

Whatever you think you are (or aren’t) does not define your identity. Your identity is formed by God’s words over you, and your calling comes straight from His heart. He has chosen you for a purpose on purpose.

The One who made you says you are able to do what He asks of you. Your past, your family line, your insecurities – these do not disqualify you. What Jesus says about you is the ultimate truth, and you can trust Him to keep His promises.

If you’re feeling small, insignificant, weak, or afraid, remember: God used a mere 300 to defeat thousands of enemies (and He chose the weakest man to lead them). He can do far more with your life than you can imagine; and if you’ll submit to Him, you’ll see firsthand the mighty power of God.