God’s Valiant Warrior (The Lord Calls Gideon)

Coach Mitchell’s Breakdown:

The Book of Judges was composed during the early reign of King David. Although David was recognized as the king, many believed that Israel lacked true leadership and unity during the latter part of his rule. The Book of Judges outlines the various judges appointed by God to guide the Israelites in their struggle against oppression.

Chapter 6 focuses extensively on the appointment of Gideon, the son of Joash. By this point in the narrative, God had allowed the Midianites and their neighboring nations to oppress the Israelites for seven years due to their persistent wrongdoing, which included the worship of false gods and a departure from the Lord whom their ancestors had revered.

Judges 6:12 illustrates how God provides power, encouragement, and comfort before assigning us tasks that may seem overwhelming. When the angel spoke to Gideon before commissioning him to deliver Israel from Midian, it enabled Gideon to converse directly with the Lord about his concerns regarding the plight of the Israelites. Although the angel did not provide specific answers to Gideon’s inquiries, he offered reassurance for the mission ahead, allowing Gideon to discover the answers to his questions through his journey.

Judges 6:12 serves as a poignant reminder that God is always present and, most importantly, remains in control, regardless of how dark or chaotic life may become.

Self Reflection Questions:

1) What tasks has the Lord recently entrusted to you as an athlete or coach that led you to question your suitability for the role and to ponder His judgment?

2) As of today, have you embraced the task assigned to you by the Lord, or are you still grappling with uncertainties? If you have accepted this calling, how is your progress thus far? Conversely, if you are still questioning, how might you draw upon Judges 6:12 to guide you toward fully accepting the responsibility that God has entrusted to you?

3)How can you apply Judges 6:12 in your role as an athlete or coach in the context of competitive matches?

Prayer Challenge:

When you are feeling as though you are unqualified to do what God has asked you to do, pray this prayer “God please help me truly entrust my life into your hands and veer away from questioning your judgement due to my lack of understanding. Help me understand that with trusting you and the task you have outlined for me, questions will always be answered during the journey. God when my world grows dark or chaotic, continue to remind me of the mighty warrior you have equipped me to be.” With love, your child.

Bible Challenge:

Read Judges 2: 1 -23 & Judges 6: 1 - 40

If you would like to submit your answers to the reflection questions or if you have questions submit them below!