How Many Times ...

Aug. 6

Read: Judges 6:36-40

How Many Times ...

“Then Gideon said to God, “Let not your anger burn against me; let me speak just once more. Please let me test just once more with the fleece...” (v.39)

I can remember as a child being asked this question : “How many times do I have to tell you?” Normally it came when I was doing something wrong, and more often than not in frustration. It is a fair question to ask someone if you have told them something multiple times. As humans, we forget. Sometimes we doubt, or simply don’t value the advice of another person no matter how many times they tell us. I am afraid this shapes our view of God - especially God the Father.

How many times have you heard passages like this from the scriptures taught in a tone where it seems like God is rolling his eyes and just putting up with us humans down here ? It would be easy to attack Gideon and say that he was dull, stubborn, or just lacking faith. I don’t think that is true. I think Gideon is a NORMAL follower of God. And you know what else ? I think that God is so patient and loving with his children he actually welcomes us coming to him in our doubt and fear.

Gideon had just called the people to come rally behind him and fight a powerful enemy that had been kicking their butts for a long time. (Do you have something or someone you feel has been kicking your butt for a while now?) Gideon was unsure... insecure. I will tel you where Gideon was on track: he knew he needed t Lord to be successful... fully aware he could not do it on his own. (Have you come to the conclusion yet that you can’t fight your battles on your own?)

In his insecurity he comes to the Lord and says “show me again”. What does God do ? He doesn’t roll his eyes or throw up his hands... he lovingly shows Gideon he is with him. He wants to do the same for you and I. Notice how Gideon says “don’t be angry with me...” He probably has had some “how many times do I have to tell you moments.” God is not Iike that!

It is ok to ask God to show you again that he loves you. It is ok to come to the Lord with your fear and insecurity. It is ok to need to be reassured. God is patience and loves the interaction with his children. Ask the Lord to show you again today that he is with you. It is ok if you need to see it again. Put out a fleece, then REST and watch God work! See how it happens overnight ... literally. Gideon was resting, not trying to make it happen ... and the Lord shows up. Don’t be made to feel as though God is angry or that he ever tires of showing his children that he is present with them and loves them! Love you guys! - JDP