Gideon-one of my favorites!

Hi Friends!

Sorry it has been a while...I plan to update the blog weekly from this point forward. :)

I had the joy of visiting First United Methodist Church in Birmingham, AL last weekend. The new minister, Reverend Keith Thompson, provided a great message that really encouraged me. Reverend Thompson preached on Gideon from the book of Judges.

God called Gideon to lead an uprising against the Midianites, who were oppressively ruling over Israel at that time. Gideon raised an army of 32,000, but after several tests by the Lord, the army consisted of only 300 men. God did this so the people of Israel would not boast to Him that they saved themselves by their own strength. At night, Gideon and his 300 men lit torches, blew trumpets and shouted, "For the Lord and for Gideon." Then they stood by and watched as the enemy ran, crying out as they fled.

What a testament to trusting God when things seem impossible! I can only imagine how nervous and anxious Gideon and the 300 faithful men must have been when they surrounded the Midianite camp and began blowing the trumpets.

I thought about how often I tell God, through prayer and meditation, that I trust Him with all my heart. Do I? I just know this...I want to be a Gideon. When I'm presented with the impossible, I want to be found faithful in my total assurance of God's goodness and plans for me.

Last week, I found myself expressing to someone who Jesus is to me and the role He plays in my life...He's my protector, my ever-present help in time of need, my rock, my shield. It is amazing to just let go in faith and let the Holy Spirit work in your life. The tender ways that Jesus makes Himself known to me are incredible. I have a peace that I can't adequately describe to people who have not yet experienced it themselves. Just think: the God who protected Gideon against the Midianite army is the same God who sent Jesus to die on the cross for you and me.

To God be the Glory!

Love,
Bari