A Willing Spirit

Scripture – Judges 6:36-40: ³⁶Gideon said to God, “If you will save Israel by my hand as you have promised—³⁷look, 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.” ³⁸And that is what happened. Gideon rose early the next day; he squeezed the fleece and wrung out the dew—a bowlful of water. ³⁹Then 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. This time make the fleece dry and the ground covered with dew.” ⁴⁰That night God did so. Only the fleece was dry; all the ground was covered with dew.

Reflection: This is a clear picture. It’s easy to see and understand what Gideon is asking and why he’s asking. Sometimes God gives me confirmations that are this clear. Other times I find myself sort of guessing whether or not I understand God’s direction.

Gideon, I think, was new to this business of living by faith. And especially at this point, God had called him to do something way beyond what he ever thought he could do. At the same time, there’s no hint that Gideon is trying to avoid God’s call.

Maybe that’s the difference for me. There are times I’m really trying to get out of a job the Lord has for me. My desire for a sign is not a desire for confirmation. Rather, I’m hoping the Lord will let me know I’ve misunderstood.

Lord, please forgive my rebellious actions. And change my rebellious nature. Help me embrace your call whenever it comes. Strengthen my faith and trust in you so I don’t need a sign. Give me wisdom and discernment, along with a willing spirit, as I serve you today.