April 30, 2018
Judges 6:14
The Lord turned to him and said, “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?”
New International Version (NIV)
                “These are the times that try men’s souls.”  What was the darkest moment in your life, spiritually?  Was it a time of great loss or a time of rebellion?  God teaches important lessons through the hardest times in our lives. 

                The period of the Judges remains one of the darkest periods in history.  God left some of the nations in the land.  This tested the mettle of the Israelites.  Mostly, they failed the test. 

                In response, God raised up leaders to deliver his people from their oppressors.  In order Othniel, Ehud, Shamgar, Deborah, and Barak all served as judges or leaders in Israel.  Each of them led part of Israel for a season.  Then the angel of the Lord came to Gideon with a surprising word, “The Lord is with you, valiant warrior.”   Gideon protested that he was the youngest member of the smallest clan of the half tribe of Manasseh.  God told him to go in the strength that he had. 

                In the end, the One who has sent us is more important than our perception of our own ability.  Our hope is not in our particular skills but in God’s calling.  What has God asked you to do?  Just a hint:  do not be surprised if it is considerably more difficult than anything you think you can do.  One plus God is always a majority.  The words remain true for you, too:  “The Lord is with you valiant warrior.”  Go in the strength you have.  
Pray with me:
Father, we thank you for your great goodness and grace.  Thank you for using whom you choose.  We say, “Yes,” to your purpose and your plan.  In the power of your presence we face this day.   We will obey.  Do what you say.  Call us today.  We will obey.  In Jesus’ name.  Amen. 
This year we focus our Every Day with Jesus readings on Jesus’ story.  With references to Tallowood's Read Through the Bible in 2018 daily reading plan, let's focus our undivided attention on Jesus and follow where he lead. He will not fail. Neither will we!
 
Joyfully, 
 
Duane 
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