Putting out the fleece

Gideon said to God, “If you will save Israel by my hand as you have promised—  look, I will place a wool fleece on the threshing floor. If there is dew only on the fleece and all the ground is dry, then I will know that you will save Israel by my hand, as you said.”  And that is what happened. Gideon rose early the next day; he squeezed the fleece and wrung out the dew—a bowlful of water.

 Then Gideon said to God, “Do not be angry with me. Let me make just one more request. Allow me one more test with the fleece, but this time make the fleece dry and let the ground be covered with dew.”  That night God did so. Only the fleece was dry; all the ground was covered with dew. Judges 6:26-40

When I study certain passages in the Bible I am so grateful that my life and decisions are not on display for the world to see like many of its characters. In truth, that’s one of the many ways to know that it’s true. If man in his own power wrote it, he would have omitted failures and embarrassing moments to protect his reputation and self image. But since God is the author, He included both failures and victories for our benefit.

Each story is recorded with the purpose of teaching and reminding us that God is the same yesterday, today and forever. His Word stands and His promises endure.

If we’re honest with ourselves we will recognize that we have many similar characteristics with several of the people written about in the Bible, and Gideon is no exception.

Have you ever received a word from the Lord and later asked God for a sign to prove that what He said would truly come to past? While you may not have done it by throwing fleece on the ground perhaps you did it by saying, “Lord, if you will make this or that happen, then I will know this is from you.”

I found myself doing this just today. The Lord had told me to be still and wait until spring for a situation that I was praying about. On my walk today I was thinking about it and thought, “If that man approaches me and asks about it, I’ll know that’s what I’m to do.”

That’s just crazy and in truth, it’s the highway to sin. One of the main tactics of the enemy is to get us to doubt what God said. Once we do we begin to think we know better than God. Just look at the beginning of today’s passage, “Gideon said to God, “If you will save Israel by my hand as you have promised – ” He is doubting the very promise that God gave him by saying the word “If.”

Gideon was delaying his obedience to God by wanting more proof of his calling. Demanding extra signs or proof can be an indication of fear and unbelief which makes us want more confirmation when we should be taking action.

If you want more of God’s guidance, don’t ask for signs; study the bible. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17 it tells us that all scripture is God breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. God has already provided all the reassurance you will ever need right in His Word.

Thank you Lord for Your Word. I pray that instead of doubting, giving into fear and disobedience, I will seek You by remembering that whatever You have called me to do, You have already made a way for it to be done. Help me to trust you more and be quick to obey. In Jesus’ name, amen.