“Gideon replied, ‘If now I have found favor in your eyes, give me a sign that it is really you talking to me.’”

Judges 6:17
Needing assurance, Gideon asked God for multiple signs. God, in His patience, kept coming down and answering. And Gideon obeyed.

Shortly after I retired from ministry, I was asked if I would serve as our regional ministry’s part-time leader during a transition time. Just starting to enjoy retirement, I said, “I’ll pray about it.” I ran the proposal by people who knew me well. I was certain my wife would discourage me, but she instead said, “I can understand why they want you. You should do it.” I wasn’t sure hers was the advice I wanted, so I sought another sign and checked with a few trusted friends. They didn’t encourage me to enjoy retirement. Rather, they said, “It’s perfect for you and them.”

Sometimes God works just this way, upending our expectations and using people as His instruments to direct us. Jesus said, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7). He didn’t say we’d get what we want or expect. But He always answers with His perfect will, and we must obey.



Scripture Focus

Judges 6:7-40

Insight

God’s people looked for signs of a coming Messiah. The signs were there! And one day, the Messiah arrived as a baby. Don’t miss the signs He gives you to see Him and know His will.

Bible In A Year

  • Daniel 11-12
  • Proverbs 10
  • Hebrews 13

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