A mighty man

This scene certainly does not depict what we in this modern day and age would describe as a mighty man, a man of proven courage and boldness, ready to take on an enemy the number of which the Bible describes as “like locusts for multitude”!

Just the opposite. We see Gideon living in a cave, threshing his family’s crop of wheat in a winepress to hide themselves and their crops from the Midianites. His response to the words of the Lord mirrors his self-esteem at that time – ‘my clan is the weakest’ and ‘I am the least in my father’s house’.

What then was it that the Lord saw in Gideon, so that He consistently in that first meeting with him, referred to Gideon as a mighty man of fearless courage? What were the signs pointing to his becoming the great leader of Israel that he eventually did become, that we would have overlooked or ignored as not applicable?

Gideon admitted his weakness, allowing God’s strength to work unhindered through him.

He was humble, not hiding his lack of courage and lowly status.

If we continue reading the rest of the chapter, we see that he loved his nation, asking God why all this has befallen them.

He knew the Scriptures and recounted for the Lord the remarkable things God had done in bringing them up from Egypt.

He was also teachable, listening carefully to and obeying the Lord’s instructions.

We all know the rest of this story, how Gideon did indeed show himself as a fearless warrior of God!

Greatness in the Kingdom of God lies in meekness. We read in the Bible how Jesus often taught about this: how the meek will inherit the earth (Matthew 5:5);  how everyone who wants to be first must be last, indeed the servant of all (Mark 9:35); Peter who was to become a great leader of the church, was instructed to feed the sheep and nurture and tend the flock (John 21:17).

Points to ponder: When God looks at my life, can he find Gideon’s humbleness, weakness, caring attitude, knowledge of Scripture and eagerness to be taught, there? Am I willing to serve and love, instead of selfishly seeking prominence and promotion in His Kingdom?