Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 Nourishing Theological Reflections from Experiences

Bible portion: Judges 6:12-24

“The Lord turned to Him and said, Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?” Judges 6:14

Devotion
The angel of the Lord appears to Gideon, while he was beating out wheat in the winepress to hide it from the Midianites. Angel even calls him a "mighty warrior" despite his fears and doubts.
God’s presence in our fears 
The appearance of angel shows that God meets us in our fears and doubts, and His presence can transform our perspectives. God's presence is not limited by our emotions or circumstances. He can appear in our lives when we least expect it, to strengthen and encourage us. Sometimes the same God appears when we want it most, in an unexpected manner.
2.    God’s willingness to strengthen our faith
 Gideon like many of us, wrestles with God's call, expressed his doubts and uncertainties. He asked, if God is really with them, then why He allowed the Midianites to oppress the Israelites? God patiently responds to Gideon's questions, providing reassurance and guidance. We, like Gideon, often struggle and doubt God's presence on our lives. But God invites us to wrestle with Him, to ask questions, and to seek clarification. In this process, we can understand that God is willing to respond and strengthen our faith.
3.    God’s presence through signs
In verses19-24, God provides signs to Gideon, confirming His presence and call.
These signs give Gideon the courage to obey God's commands. God often provides signs of His presence in our lives, too. We may experience unexpected coincidences, sense a gentle nudge, or receive a reassuring word from someone. We experience the presence of God in our Holy communion service through different signs and symbols too. These signs can strengthen our faith and encourage us to step out in obedience. Lets pray to God to help us to identify His presence and believe in His promise that He will never leave us or forsake us.
 
PRAYER
 Lord Jesus, thank you for your presence in our lives. Thank you for encouraging us when we need it the most. Help us to understand the signs you show us. Give us the strength to follow you no matter the situation. Amen
 
Thought for the Day 
 
God’s presence is like a sunrise in our darkest moments. God is always with us even when we least expect it. So let’s look for his signs today and let His love and guidance illuminate our lives and those around us.
 
Mrs Tincy Zacharia (Kotchamma)

       Carmel Mar Thoma Church, Boston

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