We’ll take two weeks to do Paige’s lesson as she is not teaching next week but the video will stay up. So, you can breathe a little! Watch about the first 40 minutes and stop when she moves into Judges 7:9. (The You-tube video begins at minute 11 — so watch until about minute 48.50.)
Perhaps the most well-known part of Gideon’s story surrounds his “throwing out a fleece.” (If you don’t know what that is, you’ll find it in Chapter 6 of Judges.) In the true story Pastor David Wilkerson told in The Cross and The Switchblade he tells how he was convicted about the amount of television he was watching and wondered if he should ditch his TV, but was reluctant. So, he “threw out a fleece.” He prayed: “Lord, if you want me to get rid of my television, have someone call me tonight and offer to buy it.” Someone did — and Wilkerson used his time to enter into the lives of gang members.
As a young Christian that story impacted me and I was often throwing out fleeces! But then I was taught that was “Old Testament” and now we should rely on the Holy Spirit for discerning God’s will. That is true, but they also missed the point of the passage. (I will say, however, that God may be gracious, and work with us, as He seemed to with David Wilkerson.) Yet I do not recommend throwing out a fleece in order to know the Lord’s will. That not only misses the point of the passage but can lead to great trouble. One young woman I know had been warned by many not to marry a young man. She sat on the end of the dock and said, “Lord, if I shouldn’t marry him, have a fish jump in the next minute.” A fish didn’t jump. She married him and he eventually broke her heart and left her.
What does this passage mean? We’ll talk about it this week. Paige and Keller has one point of view, Ralph Davis another. We’ll talk!
Link to Paige:
1. What are some things you are particularly thankful for as you consider your life in the Lord? (List 2 with a sentence illustration. For example: Here are mine:)
For His creation — like Anne of Green Gables, I’m so glad to live in a world where there are Octobers!
For His mercy — I fail Him so much, like not trying to get permission first for the transcripts: I feel heavy-hearted about it, yet I know He forgives and loves me.
Your Turn:
Listen up to minute 37:30 on You-Tube until she says “There are two things we know about Gideon.”
2. Read Judges 6:1-6. It’s the worst oppression yet. Find some illustrations of that.
I. Gideon – Hesitance
3. Up to now, God has always sent a “deliverer.” What difference do you see in Judges 6:7? What message does Gideon give the people in verses 8-10?
We want to escape our circumstances, God wants us to rightly interpret them.
Ralph Davis
4. Challenge Question: What circumstances might you like to escape right now? How instead might you rightly interpret them?
5. Read Judges 6:11-3.
Tim Keller says the angel is a Theophany, God the Son in another form.
A. What grabs you from this passage and why? Or from Paige’s teaching?
B. What does the angel say and how does Gideon respond?
C. When God persists in sending Gideon, what excuses does Gideon give? Why doesn’t God receive them?
D. What was the point of Paige’s story of the little girl who said she was all alone at home? How can we apply that to the times we feel lonely?
E. What does Gideon tell the angel in Judges 6:17 and then what does Gideon do?
F. What happens with Gideon’s gift and what does the angel tell him?
6. What is the irony when you compare Judges 6:6 and 6:25?
7. What idols block the presence and joy of the Lord in your life?
We say we worship the Lord but the world has crept in and controls our heart.
Michael Wilcox
8. Read Judges 6:36-40 and listen to Paige up to You-Tube Minute 43:28 when she says “In the second place here.” She says “This is not a passage about discerning God’s will, for God has already made that clear — what is this really about?” What grabs you from the passage or from Paige’s teaching?
9. How have you interpreted this passage in the past?
Tim Keller in his commentary, Judges for You, said some have applied this fleece passage by praying: “Lord, if you want me to take this job, let me get a phone call from them today.” But Keller cautions, saying that is like testing the Lord and asking for a sign, which Jesus cautions against. (Matt. 4:5-7) Then he explains what was actually going on with Gideon, and shows why, to interpret correctly, we must see what it first meant in that time and culture.
Gideon was very specifically asking God to show him that he was not one of the forces of nature (like the other gods) but was sovereign over the forces of nature. Gideon was not looking for “little signs” to help him make a decision. He was really seeking to understand the nature of God. We have to remember that he did not have the Bible, nor many of the “means of grace” that we have now.
On the other hand, Ralph Davis says God meets us in our weakness – and does use this fleece to bolter Gideon’s faith.
Whether it was to know this was really God or if he should do to war, God was gracious.
10. How have you understood “throwing out a fleece?” Do you agree with Keller and Paige? Why or why not?
Paige made the good point that we already know so much of God’s will from Scripture and our real prayer should be strength to obey.
11. How would the Lord have you apply this, of asking for strength to obey in a particular area?
12. Read Judges 7:1-8 and watch up to 48.55 when she begins with verse 9 “That same night”
A. What stands out to you from the passage or Paige’s teaching?
B. What was the point of deciding who should be in the army by the way they drank from the stream?
C. How has the above been misinterpreted to go against this main point? (See Judges 7:2)
D. Share a time when God worked through or despite your weakness (like all the time – -but share one.)
13. What is your take-a-way and why?
53 comments
1. What are some things you are particularly thankful for as you consider your life in the Lord? (List 2 with a sentence illustration. For example: Here are mine:) For His creation — like Anne of Green Gables, I’m so glad to live in a world where there are Octobers! For His mercy — I fail Him so much, like not trying to get permission first for the transcripts: I feel heavy-hearted about it, yet I know He forgives and loves me.
I’m thankful for Jesus – without Him, I would be nothing. I would not have access to God and would have to rely on others to carry my sins to God.
The other one would be the cross – because of the cross I have eternal life with God. My sins have been washed away and I can be assured that when I die I will be in Heaven.
Your Turn:
Listen up to minute 37:30 on You-Tube until she says “There are two things we know about Gideon.”
2. Read Judges 6:1-6. It’s the worst oppression yet. Find some illustrations of that. – vs 3 everything the Israelites planted the people of the east would come up against them and devour the produce. Leaving nothing of sustenance for the Israelites. Because there were so many of the people along with the livestock, nothing was left to salvage, they destroyed it all.
You got us off to a good start, Julie!
1. What are some things you are particularly thankful for as you consider your life in the Lord? (List 2 with a sentence illustration. For example: Here are mine:)
For His creation — like Anne of Green Gables, I’m so glad to live in a world where there are Octobers!
For His mercy — I fail Him so much, like not trying to get permission first for the transcripts: I feel heavy-hearted about it, yet I know He forgives and loves me.
Your Turn:
For His sovereignty:
He has given me the parents I had: my mom who encouraged me to be a nurse and my dad who was a great example as a teacher. For allowing Richard and I to meet and marry and for his loving support throughout the career I love as a nurse educator.
For His unconditional love:
60 plus years and He has never forsaken me even though I have forsaken Him at times.
Listen up to minute 37:30 on You-Tube until she says “There are two things we know about Gideon.”
2. Read Judges 6:1-6. It’s the worst oppression yet. Find some illustrations of that.
Conjuring a picture of how the Israelites’ oppression was has made me shudder: sheltering in mountain clefts. caves, and strongholds; planting crops but never harvesting, ruined crops and devastation, and the formidable presence of the Midianites and their armies.
Listen up to minute 37:30 on You-Tube until she says “There are two things we know about Gideon.”
1. Read Judges 6:1-6. It’s the worst oppression yet. Find some illustrations of that.
Conjuring a picture of how the Israelites’ oppression was has made me shudder: sheltering in mountain clefts. caves, and strongholds; planting crops but never harvesting, ruined crops and devastation, and the formidable presence of the Midianites and their armies.
I. Gideon – Hesitance
3. Up to now, God has always sent a “deliverer.” What difference do you see in Judges 6:7? What message does Gideon give the people in verses 8-10?
The Israelites cried out to the Lord because of Midian. And He sent a “prophet”. He recounted what God has done for them and his command not to worship idols and their consequential disobedience and ears that did not listen.
We want to escape our circumstances, God wants us to rightly interpret them.
Ralph Davis
2. Challenge Question: What circumstances might you like to escape right now? How instead might you rightly interpret them?
I have two: I would like to escape from feeling overwhelmed by ministry responsibilities and my job seems to require more and more of my time and energy.
I spent time last night laying these 2 things before the Lord and I felt He was telling me that I am overcommitted and need to learn to say NO. He provided a couple of speakers through a free mental health summit to speak to me about possible burnout. He is providing some very practical resources that do not require tons of work for me to get out of my self-imposed burdens. I need to cry out to the Lord, to save me from me and not necessarily from my circumstances.
Oh Bing — I think He is giving you insight: “self-imposed burdens” and “save me from me.”
Yes, He is, Dee. I am learning to let go and take care of myself.
1. What are some things you are particularly thankful for as you consider your life in the Lord? (List 2 with a sentence illustration. For example: Here are mine:)
For His creation — like Anne of Green Gables, I’m so glad to live in a world where there are Octobers!
For His mercy — I fail Him so much, like not trying to get permission first for the transcripts: I feel heavy-hearted about it, yet I know He forgives and loves me.
His desire to have a relationship with me – The Creator of the Universe is not distant but accessible and desires for me to draw near to Him.
For His promises – as the song goes His mercy is greater than all my sin and I will never be driven away.
Your Turn:
Listen up to minute 37:30 on You-Tube until she says “There are two things we know about Gideon.”
2. Read Judges 6:1-6. It’s the worst oppression yet. Find some illustrations of that. The Israelites were living in caves and mountain clefts. The Midianitrs were invading and taking everything crops and herds.
Love this from Judy: The Creator of the Universe is not distant but accessible and desires for me to draw near to Him.
Up to now, God has always sent a “deliverer.” What difference do you see in Judges 6:7? What message does Gideon give the people in verses 8-10? The Lord sent them a prophet first instead of a deliverer.
We want to escape our circumstances, God wants us to rightly interpret them.
Ralph Davis
4. Challenge Question: What circumstances might you like to escape right now? How instead might you rightly interpret them? The anxiety I experience when I focus on problem and not my Provider and Maker . Repent, let go and trust Him to lead me by still waters.
5
I’m sorry I have been absent for so long. I am so stretched right now. I am stressed with arrows being shot at us nearly every day by our daughter. It’s relentless and I am exhausted. I am thankful for the catch up week.
1. What are some things you are particularly thankful for as you consider your life in the Lord? (List 2 with a sentence illustration. For example: Here are mine:)
I am thankful for my mother as a role model. Her quiet beauty is now for me, more apparent than ever. She demonstrated grace in the way she went about her day with God charge; her prayer time, her holding her tongue, her actions.
I am thankful that God has always watched over me. He has made sure I have had the things I needed to survive. I have never been without a job, food, money, a roof, clothing, etc. It’s amazing. Have I worked hard? Yes. Have I messed up? Absolutely. Have I had help? Certainly. Thank You Lord.
Oh Laura, I’m so sorry this is going on still. It’s so hard to have to be a part of it I’m sure. I continue to pray for peace and justice to be served where needed. Hugs
Thanks Julie. I appreciate prayers.
I thought of you Laura when Paige talked about the pain of betrayal — (next week) and how Gideon is the only judge who attacked his ownpeople. How painful this must be for you, for you have loved your daughter so well.
I’m continuing to pray for you and your family, Laura. I’m so sorry that you’re going through this. I pray that continues to strengthen you and gives you peace.
I. Gideon – Hesitance
3. Up to now, God has always sent a “deliverer.” What difference do you see in Judges 6:7? What message does Gideon give the people in verses 8-10? We want to escape our circumstances, God wants us to rightly interpret them. – Ralph Davis – God sent them a prophet this time. And Gideon replied back to them reminding them all God had done to this point…From the Lord, I led you up from Egypt; I delivered you from the hand of the Egyptians; I drove them out before you; I gave you their land; I am the Lord your God.
4. Challenge Question: What circumstances might you like to escape right now? How instead might you rightly interpret them? – My grumpy intolerant attitude is what I want to escape from. I need to just let it go, find joy in all circumstances and be nice and realize I’m just as bad as the one that frustrates me.
5. Read Judges 6:11-3. Tim Keller says the angel is a Theophany, God the Son in another form.
A. What grabs you from this passage and why? Or from Paige’s teaching? – He just heard from the angel of the Lord that reminded him of what God had already done, but he still thinks God is not with them. Gideon didn’t seem stunned or amazed of this angel of the Lord. I thought what Paige said about them wanting God to be with them, but they were carrying around their idols still.
B. What does the angel say and how does Gideon respond? – He told him to go and save Israel. Gideon didn’t understand how that was possible since his clan was the weakest in Manasseh.
C. When God persists in sending Gideon, what excuses does Gideon give? Why doesn’t God receive them? – he says that his clan is the weakest in Manasseh and that he is the least in his father’s house.
D. What was the point of Paige’s story of the little girl who said she was all alone at home? How can we apply that to the times we feel lonely? – Those that were home with her didn’t know how to do things. They had relied on her mom to handle things so now she felt alone. I think at times we feel alone, because we need a physical person to be near us. Or maybe they are near, but just not present because they are busy with other things or paying attention to their phone. But we need to remember that the Lord is always present, he’s always with us we need to be open to feeling his presence. And that might be, being still and silent.
E. What does Gideon tell the angel in Judges 6:17 and then what does Gideon do? – He wants the Lord to show him a sign that it is the Lord he is speaking with. Gideon then goes and prepares a present for Him, a young goat and unleavened cakes.
F. What happens with Gideon’s gift and what does the angel tell him? – It was consumed with fire when the angel of the Lord touched it with his staff after Gideon put it on the rock and poured the broth over it.
6. What is the irony when you compare Judges 6:6 and 6:25? – in verse 6 they were crying out to the Lord because they took their life in their own hands and forgot about God. In verse 25 I see more obedience to the Lord and they are going to have to rely on Him and not their idols now.
7. What idols block the presence and joy of the Lord in your life? – I need to just let things happen as they will and not think that I have to have it all figured out and planned down to the last detail. Whatever is going to happen will no matter what I plan ahead for. God is in control, and I need to let him be so I can find joy it what comes.
We say we worship the Lord but the world has crept in and controls our heart. Michael Wilcox – How easy it is for the world to take over our minds. One little thing at a time and before we know it, they have more room in our hearts then God does.
So true about how we often need a person not to feel lonely.
2. Read Judges 6:1-6. It’s the worst oppression yet. Find some illustrations of that.
The Israelites hid in caves in the mountains. Their land was used so that it was not productive anymore. They were starving.
5. Read Judges 6:11-3.
Tim Keller says the angel is a Theophany, God the Son in another form.
A. What grabs you from this passage and why? Or from Paige’s teaching? I didn’t realize that Gideon was not that great of a follower of God He got to the right place and I had always kind of liked that God was willing to reassure him, but Paige pointed out Gideon was told what to do and didn’t immediately obey.
B. What does the angel say and how does Gideon respond? The Lord is with you mighty warrior of God. Gideon responded if that’s so why has all this happened to us and where are all the miracles.
C. When God persists in sending Gideon, what excuses does Gideon give? Why doesn’t God receive them? How can I save them, my clan is the weakest of Manasseh and I’m the least in my family. “I will be with you, you will strike down the Midianites, leaving none alive
D. What was the point of Paige’s story of the little girl who said she was all alone at home? How can we apply that to the times we feel lonely? The center of their home mama was gone, but she had her dad and siblings there. I have then Holy Spirit in me and Christ in me the hope of glory. So I’m not alone.
E. What does Gideon tell the angel in Judges 6:17 and then what does Gideon do? If I have found favor, give me a sign it’s really you. Stay and I will bring you my offerings. He prepared a young goat and used an ephah of flour to make bread. He then brought the meat and bread out and offered it under the oak.
F. What happens with Gideon’s gift and what does the angel tell him? Angel told him to put offering on the rock. Angel then touched the meat and bread with tip of his staff, fire consumes the offering and the angel disappears
6. What is the irony when you compare Judges 6:6 and 6:25? The Midianites had impoverished the Israelites and they called to the Lord for help. Gideon’s dad had a herd and Gideon was to take the second bull that was 7 years old and tear down the idols. The Israelites had called out to God but were still worshipping idols
7. What idols block the presence and joy of the Lord in your life? Right now today it’s worry and failure to trust that God IS taking care of me.I ask forgiveness repeatedly but can’t always sustain my trust in our wonderful God.
In your answer to 7 it reminded me of how Keller said we think Gideon is weak, yet if we are honest, we need continual reassurance the Lord is with us.
5. Read Judges 6:11-13.
Tim Keller says the angel is a Theophany, God the Son in another form.
A. What grabs you from this passage and why? Or from Paige’s teaching?
That Gideon is the only “deliverer” to whom God showed Himself. I think God uses different ways to reach us and his ways are always full of grace, patience, and non-scolding.
B. What does the angel say and how does Gideon respond?
“The Lord is with you, mighty warrior,” Gideon responded by questioning the presence of the Lord and forgetting what the Lord has done for them.
C. When God persists in sending Gideon, what excuses does Gideon give? Why doesn’t God receive them?
He downplays his qualifications, which at first may seem humble, but Paige thinks that he is more thinking of his limitations rather than who was sending him to battle. There is a lot of covert skepticism and doubt.
D. What was the point of Paige’s story of the little girl who said she was all alone at home? How can we apply that to the times we feel lonely?
E. When their mother is not home regardless of how many people there are at home, they are alone because their mother’s presence is what keeps them from feeling alone. I should look to God when I feel lonely and not to other people because they can never be with me all the time but God is ever-present with me.
F. What does Gideon tell the angel in Judges 6:17 and then what does Gideon do?
He wanted to bring an offering to the angel. He went out and prepared a young goat in broth and an ephah of bread without yeast.
G. What happens with Gideon’s gift and what does the angel tell him?
Take the meat and unleavened bread and put it in the rock and fire consumed Gideon’s offering.
6. What is the irony when you compare Judges 6:6 and 6:25?
The Israelites were impoverished by the Midianites. God asked Gideon to take his father’s second bull and make it into a burnt offering after he took down Baal’s altar and the Asherah pole next to it. They were calling to God yet worshiping other idols as well.
7. What idols block the presence and joy of the Lord in your life?
We say we worship the Lord but the world has crept in and controls our heart.
Michael Wilcox
I have said it here before and I have allowed the idols of approval and comfort to block the presence and joy of the Lord in my life.
3. Up to now, God has always sent a “deliverer.” What difference do you see in Judges 6:7? What message does Gideon give the people in verses 8-10?
The Israelites cry out to God cause of the Midianites. The prophet sent by the Lord reminded them they were saved from slavery in Egypt and protected through their journey. They were only to not worship other gods. They failed in this and the Lord was angry.
We want to escape our circumstances, God wants us to rightly interpret them.
Ralph Davis
4. Challenge Question: What circumstances might you like to escape right now? How instead might you rightly interpret them?
I would love to be free from my daughter and our situation! I need to interpret them by looking at my heart. Where is my heart in this situation? So hard!
1. What are some things you are particularly thankful for as you consider your life in the Lord? (List 2 with a sentence illustration.)
His faithfulness…through all of life’s circumstances, both ups and downs, He has always been there!
His grace…He continually extends it to me in spite of me, as the song says, “It’s greater than all my sin!”
2. Read Judges 6:1-6. It’s the worst oppression yet. Find some illustrations of that.
Israel made for themselves dens (hideouts) in the mountains and caves because of the powerful hand of the Midian’s.
Israel would be attacked by Midianites, Amalekites and people of the east whenever they planted their crops.
The enemy, as thick as locusts, camped in the land, destroying crops, leaving Israel with nothing to eat, taking their livestock.
Israel was reduced to starvation.
I. Gideon – Hesitance
3. Up to now, God has always sent a “deliverer.” What difference do you see in Judges 6:7?
When they cried out to the LORD, He sent a prophet to them (not a deliverer).
What message does Gideon give the people in verses 8-10?
I believe it was the prophet (the angel of the LORD) who gave them the message, not Gideon, and it was reminding them of all the things the LORD had done for them and who they were to worship but they had not listened to Him.
We want to escape our circumstances, God wants us to rightly interpret them.
Ralph Davis
4. Challenge Question: What circumstances might you like to escape right now? How instead might you rightly interpret them?
The circumstances with my church and quite honestly, I’m not sure how to rightly interpret them…I just continue to pray and ask for guidance and a right attitude.
That’s interesting that the prophet was the angel and not Gideon. Makes sense! Neither Paige nor Keller caught that I don’t think Smart Sharon.
9. How have you interpreted this passage in the past? From listening to Paige incorrectly. I liked that God was willing to let Gideon to question and then God reassured him.
Tim Keller in his commentary, Judges for You, said some have applied this fleece passage by praying: “Lord, if you want me to take this job, let me get a phone call from them today.” But Keller cautions, saying that is like testing the Lord and asking for a sign, which Jesus cautions against. (Matt. 4:5-7) Then he explains what was actually going on with Gideon, and shows why, to interpret correctly, we must see what it first meant in that time and culture.
Gideon was very specifically asking God to show him that he was not one of the forces of nature (like the other gods) but was sovereign over the forces of nature. Gideon was not looking for “little signs” to help him make a decision. He was really seeking to understand the nature of God. We have to remember that he did not have the Bible, nor many of the “means of grace” that we have now.
On the other hand, Ralph Davis says God meets us in our weakness – and does use this fleece to bolter Gideon’s faith.
Whether it was to know this was really God or if he should do to war, God was gracious.
10. How have you understood “throwing out a fleece?” Do you agree with Keller and Paige? Why or why not? I have put out a fleece a few times to know which direction to take on a situation. To accept responsibility for a church project and once to accept a job. Both times I got a quick response to proceed. So now I’m thinking I shouldn’t do that again though it’s come to mind over another situation.
Paige made the good point that we already know so much of God’s will from Scripture and our real prayer should be strength to obey.
Your last two sentences made me smile. I rather feel the same, but I plan not to to it!
8. Read Judges 6:36-40 and listen to Paige up to You-Tube Minute 43:28 when she says “In the second place here.” She says “This is not a passage about discerning God’s will, for God has already made that clear — what is this really about?” What grabs you from the passage or from Paige’s teaching?
This was a call to obedience. I am sad to think about when I was and am like Gideon. I hesitate and doubt God.
9. How have you interpreted this passage in the past? What is the real lesson of this passage?
I always thought this was kind of an odd passage. I may have used this passage on fleecing at one time or another but haven’t really considered it seriously. I appreciate Keller’s thought about it applying to that time and culture. I don’t have to lay out the fleece now because I have God’s Word to guide me.
Tim Keller in his commentary, Judges for You, said some have applied this fleece passage by praying: “Lord, if you want me to take this job, let me get a phone call from them today.” But Keller cautions, saying that is like testing the Lord and asking for a sign, which Jesus cautions against. (Matt. 4:5-7) Then he explains what was going on with Gideon, and shows why, to interpret correctly, we must see what it first meant in that time and culture.
Gideon was very specifically asking God to show him that he was not one of the forces of nature (like the other gods) but was sovereign over the forces of nature. Gideon was not looking for “little signs” to help him make a decision. He was really seeking to understand the nature of God. We have to remember that he did not have the Bible, nor many of the “means of grace” that we have now.
10. Is this new to you — or had you understood this?
My answer for 9.
Paige made the good point that we already know so much of God’s will from Scripture and our real prayer should be strength to obey.
Yes, I agree!
11. How would the Lord have you apply this, of asking for strength to obey in a particular area?
Telling the truth and do not hesitate or skirt the issue because I want the approval of those I value and love the most.
12. Read Judges 7:1-8 and watch up to 48.55 when she begins with verse 9 “That same night”
A. What stands out to you from the passage or Paige’s teaching?
You have too many men… Wow! Oftentimes, I think, the more fighting men, the better I can wage war. But not so. I cannot trust numbers. God does math differently. Like the five loaves and 2 fish to feed 5000+!
B. What was the point of deciding who should be in the army by the way they drank from the stream?
This was immaterial, I think because the point is not in the manner of drinking nor the number 300 but both stood for the total weak state of the Israelites. That they cannot do the battle on their own. God has delivered them before with His mighty hand despite their limitations.
C. How has the above been misinterpreted to go against this main point? (See Judges 7:2)
The 300 were the strongest military-wise, maybe tactical intelligence?
D. Share a time when God worked through or despite your weakness (like all the time – -but share one.)
There were times I was unprepared to go to the classroom because of poor time management or illness and even downright laziness and last-minute preparations. But when I acknowledge my weak efforts before God or uncertainties, He has given me the strength to move on and use my meager efforts to bring about His good. He humbles me with His rescue and unconditional love.
Love your illustration in D.
Read Judges 7:1-8 and watch up to 48.55 when she begins with verse 9 “That same night” A.What stands out to you from the passage or Paige’s teaching? You have too many men. I can’t deliver them into your hands.or Israel would boast against me. I have missed that we can take credit for what God is doing or has done – thinking a situation was about my own wisdom or strength.
B. What was the point of deciding who should be in the army by the way they drank from the stream? It was arbitrary. If only 300 handed got down on their knees then God would have chosen those men.
C. How has the above been misinterpreted to go against this main point? (See Judges 7:2) that it had something to do with the men instead of that it was God who was going to do the delivering.
D. Share a time when God worked through or despite your weakness (like all the time – -but share one.). This past week a lady had asked another woman and I to pray with her. I was tired and questioned why I agreed to do it that day, but God despite my weakness allowed the other lady and I to encourage her and give her freedom from some unforgiveness she had been carrying.
Great example, Judy.
5. Read Judges 6:11-32
Tim Keller says the angel is a Theophany, God the Son in another form.
A. What grabs you from this passage and why? Or from Paige’s teaching?
Gideon wanted a sign that it truly was the LORD speaking to him and he wanted to go and prepare an offering which according to Paige would have taken a lot of time to prepare. When Gideon returned with the offering the angel was waiting patiently, all that time! This grabbed me because I know there have been times in my life where I have stalled, making sure that I have all my ducks in a row and that it really is God’s will (knowing that it is) before I take that step of obedience and I realize how patient God has been with me…so grateful that He was and continues to be.
B. What does the angel say and how does Gideon respond?
“Mighty hero, the LORD is with you!“
”Sir, if the LORD is with us, why has all this happened to us? And where are all the miracles our ancestors told us about? Didn’t they say, ‘The LORD brought us up out of Egypt’? But now the LORD has abandoned us and handed us over to the Midianites.”
C. When God persists in sending Gideon, what excuses does Gideon give?
But…my clan is the weakest in the whole tribe of Manasseh. I am the least in my entire family.
Why doesn’t God receive them?
Because they are true.
D. What was the point of Paige’s story of the little girl who said she was all alone at home?
The little girl was home with her siblings and father but her mom was out and the feeling she had was, if mamma wasn’t home, ain’t nobody home. The point she’s making is that it doesn’t matter who’s with us if the Lord isn’t there. If God is with us who can be against us?
How can we apply that to the times we feel lonely?
God is always with me❣️
E. What does Gideon tell the angel in Judges 6:17 and then what does Gideon do?
”If you are truly going to help me, show me a sign to prove that it is really the LORD speaking to me.”
Gideon hurried home to prepare bread, broth and a goat as an offering/gift and he presented it to the angel.
F. What happens with Gideon’s gift and what does the angel tell him?
The angel tells Gideon to place the meat and bread on a rock, and pour the broth over it and the angel touched it with the tip of the staff in his hand, fire flamed up from the rock and consumed it all.
This made me smile:
But…my clan is the weakest in the whole tribe of Manasseh. I am the least in my entire family.Why doesn’t God receive them?Because they are true.
13. What is your take-a-way and why?
God cannot co-exist in my heart with other idols. “Lord, there is only one throne in my heart. And let it be yours and yours alone.”
And this quote from Sally Lloyd Jones
“Never Stopping, Never Giving Up, Unbreaking, Always and Forever Love of God.” I need to be reminded of how much I am loved, and that God is always running toward me. It also helps me love others who continually break my heart.
Such a good yet painful answer, Bing.
Thank you Bing for that wonderful reminder of the love of God.
Thank you, Dee and Judy. The love of God is so great, that it pains me to look back at my life and remember how I have fallen short of that love so many times. But this study has been reminding me of His unconditional love and I am ever grateful.
1. What are some things you are particularly thankful for as you consider your life in the Lord? Love-when I think of how the heart bursting love that I have for my grandkids is just a glimpse of the love that God has for us, it is hard to comprehend.
Sleep-I’m thankful that I have been blessed with good, restful sleep lately. Whether it’s because of less stress and anxiety after my change of employment or that my work hours line up more with my natural sleep patterns, whatever it is, I have been more energetic and clear minded than in the past.
That’s great news, Dawn!
Dawn, sleep! That is such a wonderful thing to have.
5. Read Judges 6:11-3.
Tim Keller says the angel is a Theophany, God the Son in another form.
A. What grabs you from this passage and why? Or from Paige’s teaching?
I guess I’m wondering why Gideon questions the angel. Wasn’t Job the true first book of the Bible? I suppose, after Genesis? If that is the case then wouldn’t the pain Job endured be on the minds of the Israelites? Wouldn’t Job’s questioning and God’s admonishing him be remembered?
B. What does the angel say and how does Gideon respond?
The angel tells him the Lord is with him. Gideon asks why they have so much grief if the Lord is with them.
C. When God persists in sending Gideon, what excuses does Gideon give? Why doesn’t God receive them?
He says his clan is the weakest of all and he is even weaker. The Lord says He will be right by Gideon’s side.
D. What was the point of Paige’s story of the little girl who said she was all alone at home? How can we apply that to the times we feel lonely?
Paige reminds us that when the mother isn’t home the rest feel lost. We should remember God is near.
E. What does Gideon tell the angel in Judges 6:17 and then what does Gideon do?
He tells the angel that he needs an offering (food) and to wait for him to return. He also says he wants some sort of sign from God.
F. What happens with Gideon’s gift and what does the angel tell him?
The gift is lit with flame and consumed. The angel told him to pour the broth over the food. God then says He is with Gideon and to not be afraid.
Interesting question about Job and would the Israelites have known that story! I don’t know – -I know it was stressed that they tell their children about the miraculous delivery from Egypt and other miracles — but we must remember they didn’t have a Bible like we do. But it’s an interesting point!
6. What is the irony when you compare Judges 6:6 and 6:25?
They were reduced to starvation, then cried out to the LORD for help while Gideon’s father had idols! They had a problem with God not helping them while having idols who couldn’t help them! 🤦🏻♀️
7. What idols block the presence and joy of the Lord in your life?
Control…wanting things to go my way and just backing away when they don’t because that’s how I maintain control, so I think. There’s things in my life that I just need to let go and trust the Lord.
We say we worship the Lord but the world has crept in and controls our heart.
Michael Wilcox
8. Read Judges 6:36-40 and listen to Paige up to You-Tube Minute 43:28 when she says “In the second place here.” She says “This is not a passage about discerning God’s will, for God has already made that clear — what is this really about?” What grabs you from the passage or from Paige’s teaching?
It’s really about obedience.
God’s grace in dealing with Gabriel’s doubts and fears.
9. How have you interpreted this passage in the past?
I’ve always looked at this as Gideon having a lack of faith and courage do what God has told Him to do. He wanted to make sure.
10. How have you understood “throwing out a fleece?”I understood it as asking God to prove in some way and take away all doubt of what He wants you to do.
Do you agree with Keller and Paige? Why or why not?
I agree with Paige as I was taught from a young age that putting a fleece out is not how you discern God’s will but rather through scripture and prayer.
Paige made the good point that we already know so much of God’s will from Scripture and our real prayer should be strength to obey.
11. How would the Lord have you apply this, of asking for strength to obey in a particular area?
To be intentional (the first thing I do) in seeking Him through prayer and scripture.
Yours is the clearest answer to 6! Very convicting too!
12. Read Judges 7:1-8 and watch up to 48.55 when she begins with verse 9 “That same night”
A. What stands out to you from the passage or Paige’s teaching?
What stood out to Jim and I, is that the way the men drank from the stream, had nothing to do with how capable they were to fight but rather the number. We were both taught that God chose them by the way they drank the water and that really is not true at all. It was about them going to battle in God’s strength and in their weakness…love this!
B. What was the point of deciding who should be in the army by the way they drank from the stream?
See answer A
C. How has the above been misinterpreted to go against this main point? (See Judges 7:2)
See answer A
D. Share a time when God worked through or despite your weakness (like all the time – -but share one.)
In being an introvert I have to depend on God to help me reach out to people and be genuine…it’s definitely not me!
I am Jim learned something new. I’d been told that too but it certainly goes against the whole point of trusting God alone!
13. What is your take-a-way and why?
Gods grace, patience and love for me. He wants to calm my fears because He loves me, He wants me to cry out to Him when I am weak because He loves me and I should want to be obedient because He loves me.
6. What is the irony when you compare Judges 6:6 and 6:25?
They were starving in verse 6 and had 2 bulls in 25 (?!).
7. What idols block the presence and joy of the Lord in your life?
Work, exercise, family, etc.
8. Read Judges 6:36-40 and listen to Paige up to You-Tube Minute 43:28 when she says “In the second place here.” She says “This is not a passage about discerning God’s will, for God has already made that clear — what is this really about?” What grabs you from the passage or from Paige’s teaching?
This is about God Himself.
9. How have you interpreted this passage in the past?
I suppose I am one who looks for signs to know that I am heading in the right direction. I never thought it was wrong. How else do I know God is with me? Isn’t that what the Holy Spirit does? So much of the time I feel alone. I need reminders because I am human. Trust is so hard and I am so weak! If I’m honest I will say I will probably continue to look and ask for signs; sigh.
8. I also meant to say it’s about Gideons obedience.
I understand Laura — and sometimes the Lord does confirm through friends, or circumstances — that is a little different than testing God. God was gracious with Gideon and is with us as well. A big difference for us is the Holy Spirit and we can ask for His peace and His wisdom.
10. How have you understood “throwing out a fleece?” Do you agree with Keller and Paige? Why or why not?
I guess this is a part of the Bible I have not studied as much as other parts. I kind of remember the fleece and dew story but not really. I don’t think I have asked God to do something directly, like if you do this then I will know. It’s more like, please show me that what I am doing is what you want me to do. Is that the same thing? I guess I do agree with Keller and Paige here. But, I also think we as humans can interpret what we believe are signs (without demanding). Aren’t those our “kisses from the King,” of which we speak?
I should have read this before I answered — for the Holy Spirit gave you the answer! Yes, that is different than demanding!
11. How would the Lord have you apply this, of asking for strength to obey in a particular area?
Oh, how this speaks to me right now! Whatever the outcome of our guardianship of the grands, I must obey. I am convinced He will prevail one way or another. It may look a lot different than I think is should look. Oh Lord help my human heart. Help me to be Your good servant.
12. Read Judges 7:1-8 and watch up to 48.55 when she begins with verse 9 “That same night”
A. What stands out to you from the passage or Paige’s teaching?
Since I’m not familiar with this story, I’m curious s as to what “happens” to Gideon after he crosses the Jordan River. Why did he change?
B. What was the point of deciding who should be in the army by the way they drank from the stream?
I suppose it was to show that God was really in charge. But lapping versus cupping the hand? Not sure about that. Dogs lap…is it really that literal? Dogs have to be led? I don’t think it really matter who it was because God is always in charge!
C. How has the above been misinterpreted to go against this main point? (See Judges 7:2)
It’s not the Israelites who are the strength. It’s God.
That is so good though so hard to release your grands — but how I pray the judge will have discernment and give them to you. But your right, must trust God for sometimes does things in surprising ways.