Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 Dignity of Labour and Divine Commissioning

 Judges 6: 11-24

Gideon replied, “If now I have found favor in your eyes, give me a sign that it is really you talking to me.  v.17

During this time, the Israelites were being oppressed by the Midianites. They were told by the Lord not to worship any other gods, but they did not listen.. Gideon, son of Joash, was approached by the angel of the Lord and had a very honest question: why is this happening to us? Why is God allowing this to happen to his own people? So often we find ourselves asking “why?” without understanding the purpose behind God’s greater plan. In John 11, we read about Jesus healing Lazarus from the dead. When Jesus heard word of Lazarus falling ill, he decided to stay put for two more days. Staying put and not taking action does not seem like a solution to someone who needs immediate attention. Yet, Jesus said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.” Gideon was chosen for the glory of God. Although his clan was the weakest and he was the least in his family, he was chosen for a greater purpose. 

Sometimes we fail to answer God’s call - not necessarily because we turn away from it, but rather, we fail to acknowledge it. So often we ask God to give us a sign, so we can reaffirm our gut feeling. In verse 18, we see Gideon telling the angel of the Lord to wait so he can bring back an offering so the angel can prove they are from the Lord. We’ve grown accustomed to believing in things we see rather than having blind faith. We need that reassurance from God to solidify our faith and justify our actions. I urge you brothers and sisters, trust your instinct. If you feel that God is calling you to partake in His greater purpose, do not ignore the call. Answer it, and ‘go in the strength you have’.
 

Prayer
Lord, forgive us for we are fickle and doubtful. Help us to strengthen our faith so we can partake in your greater purpose. Not my will Lord, but yours. In Your Name, we pray. Amen.
 

Thought of the day

Keep an open eye out for God’s intervention in our lives. Do not turn away from what God has placed before you.

Mr. Joash Mathew
St. John's Mar Thoma Church, NY

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