Seeking Truth in the Midst of Doubt
Verses:Judges 6:11-16 - "And there came an angel of the LORD, and sat under an oak which was in Ophrah... And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him, and said unto him, The LORD is with thee, thou mighty man of valour... And Gideon said unto him, Oh my Lord, if the LORD be with us, why then is all this befallen us? and where be all his miracles which our fathers told us of... And the LORD looked upon him, and said, Go in this thy might, and thou shalt save Israel from the hand of the Midianites: have not I sent thee?"
In the midst of uncertainty and doubt, Gideon's story offers a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking truth. As the Israelites cowered in fear of the Midianites, Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress, ever vigilant for potential threats. It was in this context that the angel appeared to him, commissioning him to lead the Israelites to victory.
Gideon's response to the angel's commission reveals his genuine concern for the welfare of his people and his desire to understand God's ways. He asks two poignant questions: "If the Lord is with us, why then is all this befallen us?" and "Where are all His miracles which our fathers told us of?" These questions demonstrate a willingness to engage with God, even in the midst of uncertainty.
What's striking about Gideon's questions is that they show a willingness to engage with God, even in the midst of uncertainty. He doesn't shy away from expressing his doubts, and in doing so, he opens himself up to a deeper understanding of God's character.
The Lord's response to Gideon's questions is remarkable. Rather than rebuking him for his doubts, God affirms Gideon's strength and commissions him to lead the Israelites to victory. This exchange highlights the importance of seeking truth and embracing our doubts. When we bring our questions and concerns to God, we create space for Him to reveal Himself to us in new and powerful ways.
As we reflect on Gideon's story, may we be encouraged to seek truth and engage with God, even in the midst of uncertainty. May we cultivate a willingness to ask questions and express our doubts, trusting that God will meet us in our vulnerability.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, help us to seek truth and engage with You, even in the midst of uncertainty. May we cultivate a willingness to ask questions and express our doubts, trusting that You will meet us in our vulnerability. Give us the courage to seek You with honesty and humility, that we may deepen our understanding of Your character and ways. Amen.