Skip to main content

Judges-6

Gideon's Deliverance: A Devotional Study on Judges 6​

Introduction​

In Judges 6, we witness the unfolding of a pivotal moment in the history of Israel. Gideon, a weak and hesitant man, is called upon by God to lead Israel in their deliverance from the oppression of Midian. As we delve into this chapter, let's reflect on the spiritual insights and truths embedded within this narrative.

Section 1: The Grievous Midianite Oppression (Judges 6:1-6)​

Devotional Thought: The Israelites were oppressed by the Midianites for seven long years. During this time, their crops were destroyed, and their women and children were taken captive. Consider the parallels in our lives. Are we allowing resentment, fear or adversity to overpower us, causing us to miss God's direction?

Reflection Questions:

  • In what areas of your life are you experiencing adversity or fear?
  • How can you trust in God's leading, even in the midst of difficult circumstances?

Section 2: The Appearance of an Angel (Judges 6:11-24)​

Devotional Thought: The Angel of the Lord appears to Gideon and tells him of His plans for deliverance. If we look closely, we see attributes of Jesus Christ, the preincarnate Son of God. Julie Clawson writes, "The Angel of the Lord calls himself ‘the Lord' making a direct connection to the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4). The design of this theophany suggests that it is indeed preincarnate Christ. In verses 11 and 12, ‘the angel of the Lord' speaks to Gideon as ‘the Lord' (Yahweh in Hebrew)."

Let's take some time to reflect on the intimate connection between the angel and the One who is to come.

Reflection Questions:

  • How does knowing that Christ pre-existed deepen your understanding of His character and divine nature?
  • How can we be better imitators of Christ's compassion, mercy, and strength in our lives?

Section 3: Gideon's Household Officers and Fear (Judges 6:25-40)​

Devotional Thought: God employs Gideon's household officers as a means of testing his faith and boldness. But who is truly afraid in this account? Gideon's household officers or Gideon himself? Though Gideon was initially hesitant, his faith grew as God's miraculous provision was revealed. Let's reflect on how our fears can often hinder us from trusting in God's leading.

Reflection Questions:

  • What fears are hindering you from trusting in God's leading?
  • How can you overcome your fears through faith and obedience?

Section 4: The Ephod of Jezebel (Judges 8:27)​

Devotional Thought: At the end of the battle, Gideon creates an ephod, or idol, that becomes a point of religious devotion for Israel. This sudden turn of events is a prominent theological symbol that signifies the tendency for us to put our confidence in seemingly reliable sources, rather than God. Consider how we, too, often fall into the trap of trusting in the idols of human wisdom, religion or success.

Reflection Questions:

  • What idols in life distract us from putting our trust in God?
  • In what ways can we be better stewards of trusting in God's leading, rather than earthly figures or objects?

Conclusion:​

Stories in the Bible provide spiritual insights that call us to contemplate on our lives and our faith. Judges 6 is an impactful narrative that teaches us about the reality of struggle and the need to trust in God's leading, even when doubts and fears arise. As we end our devotional journey through Judges 6, let's remember the words of Jesus Christ: "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6, ESV). May we find comfort and security in the ultimate source of trust: Jesus Christ.