Gideon’s story is told in Judges 6-8
Gideon: The Reluctant Hero Who Trusted God
Have you ever felt too small, too unsure, or too scared to do something big? If so, you’re not alone. That’s exactly how Gideon felt when God chose him to lead a major mission in the Bible. But even though Gideon didn’t feel ready or strong enough, God used him in powerful ways. His story shows us that with God, we don’t have to be the strongest or the bravest to do great things.
Who Was Gideon?
Gideon lived at a time when things were very hard for the people of Israel. A group of enemies called the Midianites kept attacking them. They stole their crops and animals, and the people lived in fear.
Gideon wasn’t anyone special in the eyes of the world. He came from a small family and felt like the least important person around. In fact, when we first meet him in the Bible, he’s hiding in a winepress, trying to secretly gather food so the Midianites wouldn’t take it.
God Calls Gideon
While Gideon was hiding, an angel appeared to him and said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior!” (Judges 6:12). Can you imagine how strange that must have sounded to Gideon? He didn’t feel like a warrior at all.
Gideon was confused and unsure. He even asked for signs to make sure this was really God speaking to him. Instead of getting upset, God was patient and gave Gideon the reassurance he needed. This shows that God understands our doubts and gently helps us move forward.
Gideon’s First Step of Obedience
Gideon’s first task from God wasn’t going into battle—it was to take down an altar to a false god in his own town. This was a big deal because his own family and neighbors worshiped that idol.
Even though Gideon was scared, he did what God asked. He chose to tear down the altar at night so fewer people would see him. That might sound like a small act of bravery, but it was a big step in the right direction. It shows us that courage doesn’t always mean being fearless—it means doing what’s right even when we are afraid.
The Big Battle with a Small Army
Later, God told Gideon to gather an army to fight the Midianites. Gideon gathered 32,000 men—but God said that was too many. He wanted the people to know that victory would come from Him, not from a large army.
So God told Gideon to send most of the soldiers home. In the end, only 300 men were left. With just trumpets, torches, and clay jars, Gideon’s tiny army scared the Midianites so much that they ran away. God had given them the victory!
What We Can Learn from Gideon
Gideon’s story is full of important lessons:
- God sees more in us than we see in ourselves. He called Gideon a “mighty warrior” long before Gideon felt like one.
- It’s okay to ask God for help when we’re unsure. Gideon asked for signs, and God responded with kindness.
- Courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s choosing to obey even when we feel afraid.
- God doesn’t need big numbers or special skills to do something amazing. He just needs willing hearts.
Final Thoughts
Gideon didn’t feel like a hero. He doubted himself and was afraid—but he chose to trust God. And because of that, God used him to rescue an entire nation.
Reflection question:
Is there something you feel too scared or small to do? Maybe it’s something God is asking you to step into. Remember Gideon’s story—and trust that God can use you, too.