Dr H Reflections

Endurance with endorphins ∙∙

Endurance with endorphins ∙∙

Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. – Hebrews 10:36

2 Corinthians 4:16-18

16 That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day.

17 For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!

18 So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; instead, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.

What is Endurance?

Endurance refers to the ability to sustain effort, persevere, and maintain activity over an extended period of time. In the physical sense, it encompasses the capacity to resist, withstand, and recover from fatigue, trauma, or wounds. Physical endurance can be enhanced through targeted exercises, such as strength training, which:

Strengthens the heart
Develops fatigue-resistant muscles
Improves balance and coordination
Stimulates muscle growth

By increasing repetitions and speed during workouts, individuals can boost their stamina and perseverance.

The Benefits of Increased Endurance

Improved endurance not only enhances physical performance but also improves mental and emotional well-being. The release of endorphins during physical activity helps to:

Reduce anxiety, depression, and stress
Foster peace and confidence
Improve mood and overall outlook

Beyond the Physical: Spiritual and Emotional Endurance

Endurance is not limited to the physical; it encompasses spiritual and emotional aspects as well. Spiritual endurance, often referred to as “grit” in psychology, is the ability to face challenges with a resilient and positive attitude. When combined with passion and enthusiasm, grit turns obstacles into chances for growth.

As children of the King, we are encouraged to develop spiritual grit, which helps us face adversity with faith and perseverance.

The Paradox of Endurance

Interestingly, physical endurance and strength tend to decline naturally with age. In fact, everything that makes us human tends to wear down and wear out with age. There is a single exception – the human spirit. This paradox highlights the unique nature of spiritual endurance:

Physical Decline: Over time, our bodies wear down and lose strength.
Spiritual Growth: Life’s challenges, while weakening the body, can strengthen the spirit.

William Barclay beautifully captures this idea: “All through life, inevitably, our physical strength fades away; but all through life, it ought to happen that our souls keep growing. The sufferings which leave us with weakened bodies may be the very things which strengthen our inner selves . . .. From the physical point of view, life may be a slow but inevitable slipping down the slope that leads to death. But, from the spiritual point of view, life is climbing up the hill that leads to the presence of God.”

This concept is echoed in 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, where Paul reminds us: “That is the reason why we do not grow weary. But if indeed our outward frame is wasting away, our inward self is renewed day by day . . .. so long as we do not think of the things which are seen, but of the things which are unseen, for the things which are seen are passing, but the things which are unseen are eternal.”

A Touch of Humor

Even as we age, some aspects of life remain constant. Humor reminds us to embrace the lighter side of life. For example, Jim Fiebig writes, “Age does not diminish the extreme disappointment of having a scoop of ice cream fall from the cone,” While Satchel Paige quips, “Age is a question of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.”

REFLECT & PRAY

The worst of what we experience is overshadowed by the best of what lies ahead. William Barclay observes, “In all the gospel story, Jesus never foretold his death without foretelling his resurrection.”

Father, increase my endurance so that I may face life’s challenges as an overcomer. Help me to focus on the unseen, eternal reality that brings hope and strength.

INSIGHT

The Eternal vs. The Temporary

The material world, with all its visible and tangible elements, is fleeting. It will one day cease to exist. In contrast, the immaterial world, the unseen, eternal things of heaven, lasts forever. Paul urges us to shift our focus from the temporary to the eternal, 2 Corinthians 4:18 “So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.”

This involves not physical sight, but spiritual perception. It’s about seeing with the eyes of our hearts and minds, focusing on what truly matters.

The Meaning of “Fixing Our Eyes”

The Greek word skopeo, translated as “fix” or “look,” carries a deeper meaning than the English word suggests. It implies “paying careful attention, watching intently, and contemplating.” The use of the English word look “is a rather weak translation of the verb used here. It carries the idea of ‘focus one’s attention on’ or ‘keep one’s eye on’” (UBS). But how can we focus and fix our eyes on something invisible? The answer is that we cannot!

That is the point. The essence here is not about seeing with our physical eyes but instead perceiving with our minds and spiritual vision. As Abernathy explains, this means: ‘‘to let one’s mind dwell on,” “to keep one’s mind on,” “to keep thinking about,” and “to focus one’s attention on.”

The NLT translation captures this well: “We fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen.” This focus is not on what can be seen with the naked eye but on what is eternal and unseen. Paul encourages us to perceive with our spirits and the eyes of our hearts, urging us to shift our attention from the temporary to the everlasting.

A Paradigm Shift: Seeing with Spiritual Eyes

Paul’s perspective is clear: instead of focusing on temporary, earthly matters, we should turn our attention to eternal truths. Take a moment to absorb what Paul is saying. We are to “see” with our spirits what cannot be seen physically. This calls for a paradigm shift, a change in how we view life.

The Horizontal View: Life as a slow, inevitable journey away from God, focused on visible, material things.
The Vertical View: Life as a journey toward God, focused on the unseen, eternal realities.

Paul exemplifies this vertical focus, even in the midst of hardships and afflictions. He encourages us to look beyond the present and toward the future through the lens of faith.

Fixing our Eyes on He Who is Invisible

Paul had it figured out. He shows us the way to find peace in the midst of difficult times. As the author of Hebrews puts it, Hebrews 12:1 “Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.”

Paul wasn’t alone in this perspective. Moses, too, demonstrated spiritual endurance,

Hebrews 11:27, “Moses kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the one who is invisible.”

Spiritual endurance, similar to physical endurance, develops over time through training. This growth requires a focused commitment to viewing life through the lens of faith.

As Snoopy from Peanuts humorously reminds us: “You can’t hurry love or pizza. Especially pizza.”

Finding Peace in Eternal Realities

Paul’s approach provides a pathway to find peace during life’s challenges. By focusing on the unseen and eternal, we can rise above our present troubles. When we view life through this perspective, it becomes a journey toward God rather than away from Him.

And Charlie Brown offers this wisdom: “Learn from yesterday, live for today, look to tomorrow, rest this afternoon.”

The unseen realities of heaven are not just abstract concepts; they are the foundation of our hope and endurance. By focusing on these eternal realities, we can face life’s challenges with faith, peace, and a clear sense of purpose.

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The brevity of life ∙∙∙

The brevity of life ∙∙∙

6 All flesh is grass, and all its loveliness is like the flower of the field.

7 The grass withers, the flower fades, when the breath of the LORD blows upon it; surely the people are grass.

8 The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God lasts forever. – Isaiah 40:6-8

Psalms 103:15-17

15 Our days on earth are like grass; like wildflowers, we bloom and die.

16 The wind blows, and we are gone, as though we had never been here.

17 But the love of the LORD remains forever with those who fear him.

Life’s Built-In Expiration Date

Every person who comes into this world has a predetermined expiration date. None of us knows when our time will come, but one thing is certain: shuffling off this mortal coil is inevitable. As the years go by, we are constantly reminded of life’s brevity. Along the way, we experience the heartache of losing loved ones, witness changes in the world around us, and undergo internal transformations.

A Fitting Illustration of Transience

No matter how long we live, life is undeniably brief when measured against the vastness of eternity. To grasp the concept of transience, one needs only observe the grass and flowers in a field. There could be no better example, as they perfectly illustrate the fleeting nature of life. As Oswalt aptly says, “Quickly grown and quickly withered, it is blown this way and that by every wind.”

Isaiah captures this truth in his words: Isaiah 40:6 Shout that people are like the grass. Their beauty fades as quickly as the flowers in a field.

Isaiah doesn’t stop there. He directly compares the shortness of human life to the fleeting existence of grass and flowers: Isaiah 40:7 The grass withers, and the flowers fade beneath the breath of the LORD. And so it is with people.

The Eternal Word of God

In stark contrast to the fleeting nature of human life, the Word of God endures forever. While human transience is inevitable, the permanence of the Father and His promises remains unshaken. No matter the circumstances, what the Father has spoken in His Word will surely come to pass.

Isaiah declares, Isaiah 40:8 The grass withers and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever.

There are only two things on the planet Earth that are eternal: the Word of God and the human soul.

The Unchanging Love of the Father

The Father’s love for the children of the King is steady and unfailing. It never wavers. In a constantly changing world, He remains the one enduring reality. As Geoffrey W. Grogan notes, “He designed it so.”

With confidence and hope, we can always rely on our unchanging Father. His loving kindness and support are unwavering for all who belong to Him. A relationship with Him is a source of endless joy and fulfillment.

Faith Through Adversity

Charles Spurgeon beautifully reminds us of the value of tested faith, “No faith is so precious as that which lives and triumphs through adversity. Tested faith brings experience. You would never have believed your own weakness had you not needed to pass through trials. And you would never have known God’s strength had His strength not been needed to carry you through.”

Aligning with What Truly Matters

Such insights often lead us to ask life’s big questions:

What is constant and certain?
What truly matters?
What lasts and endures over time?

In light of these questions, many reevaluate their priorities. Would it not be wiser to align ourselves with what truly matters and lasts forever?

REFLECT & PRAY

Life is brief. When we are young, we may feel invincible and believe we will live forever, but as we grow older, we come to realize the truth about how brief life truly is.

Father, thank You for Your understanding and compassion. Encourage me to immerse myself in Your eternal goodness and loyal love. Help me to focus on what truly matters and to find joy in my relationship with You.

INSIGHT

Life’s Fleeting Nature

David writes of the sobering truth Psalms 103:15 Our days on earth are like grass; like a flower of the field, we bloom and die.

Life passes quickly, slipping away before we fully appreciate its brevity. However, David, a man deeply knowledgeable in the ways of God, does not give in to despair or resignation. Instead, he chooses joy and hope. Is this denial? Certainly not. David’s profound connection with the Father gives him a higher perspective that transforms his outlook and fills him with overwhelming joy.

The Father’s Eternal Goodness vs. Human Frailty

What does David see from this elevated perspective? He observes the stark contrast between the Father’s everlasting goodness and loyal love and humanity’s fleeting transience and vulnerability.

How does the Father respond to human weakness? Fully aware of our fragility and tendency to fail, He responds with compassion. He knows that we are but dust. He formed us from the dirt of the ground. We are like short-lived flowers and grass that wither and blow away without leaving a trace.

David proclaims for all time that the Lord God Almighty, our Father, treats us gently and kindly, just like a loving and compassionate father. Psalms 103:13 The LORD is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate.

The Father’s deep understanding of our frailty prompts a kind and gentle response. Our weakness appeals to His compassion, as noted by Expositors: “The Father responds to us with pity. He knows what we are, that we are frail and needy.”

David’s Response: Worship and Joy

David perceives life from the Father’s perspective. He sees as the Father sees. Rather than allowing the brevity of life to lead him into despair, David chooses to worship. He does not focus on human limitations; instead, he immerses himself in the truth of the Father’s eternal goodness and steadfast love. David celebrates his close, intimate relationship with the Father, finding joy in His unwavering love and care.

Remembering What the Father Knows

Frequently, we forget what the Father remembers: we are made from dust. As MacDonald observes, “We are formed from the dust of the ground.” This truth, rather than being a source of discouragement, can inspire us to embrace joy, contentment, and gratitude.

Each of us has been granted the freedom to make that choice. David, over time, learned from his mistakes and discovered how to make the right choices, which led to a life filled with joy.

The Call to Kindness and Understanding

Clarence Darrow offers a poignant reflection: “When we fully understand the brevity of life, its fleeting joys, and unavoidable pains; when we accept the facts that all men and women are approaching an inevitable doom: the consciousness of it should make us more kindly and considerate of each other. . .. It should bring a closer kinship, a better understanding, and a deeper sympathy for the wayfarers who must live a common life and die a common death.”

Aging and Emotional Stability

Laura Carstensen provides an encouraging insight: “As it turns out, most grumpy old people used to be grumpy young people. Aging doesn’t turn a cheerful person into a grouch. To the contrary, research has shown that, as we age, we become more emotionally stable and content.”

Grimace or Gratitude: The Choice Is Ours

Life’s brevity presents us with a choice: to grimace in despair or to embrace gratitude and joy. David’s example reminds us that when faced with life’s fleeting nature, we can choose to focus on the Father’s eternal goodness and steadfast love.

The decision is ours to make. Will we choose to live with gratitude, kindness, and joy? Or will we allow life’s transience to weigh us down? The answer lies in our hands.

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Unshakable strength – enduring hope ∙∙

Unshakable strength – enduring hope ∙∙

Fire tests the purity of silver and gold, but the LORD tests the heart. – Proverbs 17:3

Romans 5:3-5

3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance.

4 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope.

5 And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.

How is Gold Refined?

Since ancient times, gold has been refined by applying intense heat. The process begins by placing gold ore into a crucible and heating it to a temperature above 1830°F. At this high temperature, the material turns molten. After stirring the mixture, the impurities spread throughout the gold ore and started to rise. The goldsmith then skims these impurities off the surface, ensuring the gold’s purity. This cycle is repeated until the gold reaches a high standard, nearly free of impurities. This method of refining gold is still used today.

How are the Impurities of our Hearts Removed?

Just as gold contains impurities, so do our hearts. How does the Father remove them? He uses the trials and challenges of life as the refining fire to purify us. We call it suffering, sorrow, or affliction because we focus on what is happening to us rather than recognizing what the Father is doing in us.

Transformation Through Trials – the Father’s Perspective

The Father has a clear end goal: to shape us into what He intended for us from eternity past. The Father knows that the refining process is temporary, but the outcome is eternal. He focuses on the desired result rather than the method used. The refining process is simply a way to achieve the desired end. As flawed and self-absorbed beings, we become fixated on our pain and discomfort. The challenges, hardships, and afflictions we encounter can seem overwhelming and discouraging. Our perspective tends to center around ourselves and our struggles, creating a turbulent inner world where our struggles dominate the story.

The apostle Paul explains in Romans 5:3-5: “We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope. And this hope will not lead to disappointment.”

The Steps of Transformation

Paul describes the step-by-step process of spiritual transformation that occurs through trials and challenges. He begins by recognizing the reality of life’s difficulties. These trials act like “fire,” refining us much as gold is purified through heat. These experiences are not random; a wise and loving Father thoughtfully designs them. Instead of being just obstacles to get through, they offer valuable opportunities for growth.

Endurance (Hupomone) – Step One

What is endurance? Endurance is the ability to remain faithful and steadfast, even in the face of difficult circumstances. Paul explains that trials help us develop endurance. The Greek word translated as “endurance” is hupomone. Hupomone means “more than just patience; it refers to a steadfast, persevering spirit that remains strong under pressure.” Endurance is not passive; it is active. Endurance builds spiritual stamina.

Character (Dokime) – Step Two

Endurance leads to the development of character. The Greek word translated as “character or proven character” is dokime. Dokimerefers to “something that has been tested and approved.” When clay pots were made in the first century, they were placed into a furnace and fired until the intense heat transformed them. The soft clay became a rigid, resilient container. Some of the pots cracked and were discarded. The pots came through the process intact and were stamped: dokimos, “approved.”

What is Proven Character? “Proven character is a deep, inner strength that comes from being tested and remaining faithful.” Like clay pots fired in a furnace, our character is hardened and strengthened through the heat of trials.

The Father is a highly qualified, experienced, and expert spiritual heart surgeon. We could not be in better hands. Each child of the King is born again with congenital spiritual heart conditions.

Isaiah 48:10 Behold, I have refined you, but not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction.

Albert Einstein sagaciously noted, “We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.”

REFLECT & PRAY

David had a tremendous attitude reflected in Psalms 26:2, “Examine me, O LORD, and try me; test my motives and heart.” It is so easy to “crack” under pressure. This is not the Father’s intention. His goal is that we come through approved, not fractured.

Father, help me change my perspective and see things as You do. Encourage me to focus on the end result and seek to learn whatever You are teaching me.

INSIGHT

Biblical hope – The Buoyant Spirit

Some people appear almost buoyant, regardless of the challenges life presents. They consistently rise to the top, displaying resilience and vitality even in the most challenging circumstances. The Father is actively working in each of His children to cultivate this remarkable quality. His goal is to instill within us an unshakable strength, enduring hope, and a spirit that thrives despite adversity.

Biblical Hope vs. Worldly Hope

Biblical hope is significantly different from the hope typically found in the world. The hope the world offers often amounts to wishful thinking, a desire for a favorable outcome without any certainty. This kind of hope is fragile and can easily lead to disappointment.

In contrast, biblical hope is “confident expectation” that will not lead to disappointment. The Greek word translated as “hope” is elpis. It signifies a “reasonable and confident expectation concerning the future.” “Biblical hope is not just wishing for the best; it is rooted in trusting God’s promises with absolute certainty.”

Romans 5:5 explains that, “this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with His love.”

Biblical hope is anchored in the character of God. It is a confident expectation that will never fail because His eternal power and love back it.

The Difference Biblical Hope Makes in Crisis

As William Barclay observed, two people can face the same crisis, yet their responses

can be vastly different:

One may fall into despair, seeing the crisis as the end of hope.
The other may rise to the challenge, seeing the crisis as an opportunity for growth and greatness.

The Role of Character

What is Character? Character is “the inner strength and moral quality that defines who we are.” It is shaped by how we respond to life’s challenges. Character is “built through perseverance, integrity, and faithfulness.” In simple terms, character is what remains when we’ve been tested and approved.

The Secret Ingredient

The hope that the Father instills in us is profoundly different because it comes from His loving heart. It is infused with a secret ingredient: His love.

The Father’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who dwells within us. When the Father’s love becomes tangible in our lives, it often manifests as a palpable presence. Many children of the King have experienced this, regrettably, not all of them. This love strengthens our hope and gives us confidence in His promises.

Barclay’s reflects, “When our hope is in the Father’s love for us, it can never be an illusion, for our Father loves us with an everlasting love backed by an eternal power.”

The author of Psalms 66:10 exclaims, “For You have tried us, O God; You have refined us as silver is refined.”

Gratitude is a matter of attitude. Let us live with gratitude, resilience, and an awareness of the Father’s goodness. “What a great honor and privilege to be a child of the King.”

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O mighty man of valor ∙∙

O mighty man of valor ∙∙

The angel of the LORD appeared to him and said to him, “The LORD is with you, O mighty man of valor.” – Judges 6:12

Judges 6:1-40

1 The Israelites did evil in the LORD’s sight. So the LORD handed them over to the Midianites for seven years.

6 So Israel was reduced to starvation by the Midianites. Then the Israelites cried out to the LORD for help.

8 The LORD sent a prophet to the Israelites. He said, “This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: I brought you up out of slavery in Egypt.

9 I rescued you from the Egyptians and from all who oppressed you. I drove out your enemies and gave you their land.

10 I told you, “I am the LORD your God. You must not worship the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you now live.” But you have not listened to me.

11 Then the angel of the LORD came and sat beneath the great tree at Ophrah . . .. Gideon son of Joash was threshing wheat at the bottom of a winepress to hide the grain from the Midianites.

12 The angel of the LORD appeared to him and said, “Valiant warrior, the LORD is with you!”

13 Gideon replied, “If the LORD is with us, why has all this happened to us? And where are all the miracles our ancestors told us about? Didn’t they say, ‘The LORD brought us up out of Egypt’? But now the LORD has abandoned us and handed us over to the Midianites.”

15 “But Lord,” Gideon replied, “how can I rescue Israel? My clan is the weakest in the whole tribe of Manasseh, and I am the least in my entire family!”

16 The LORD said to him, “I will be with you.”

17 Gideon replied, “If you are truly going to help me, show me a sign to prove that it is really the LORD speaking to me.

34 Then the Spirit of the LORD took possession of Gideon . . ..

36 Then Gideon said to God, “If you are truly going to use me to rescue Israel as you promised,

37 prove it to me in this way. I will put a wool fleece on the threshing floor tonight. If the fleece is wet with dew in the morning but the ground is dry, then I will know that you are going to help me rescue Israel as you promised.”

38 And that is just what happened. When Gideon got up early the next morning, he squeezed the fleece and wrung out a whole bowlful of water.

39 Then Gideon said to God, “Please don’t be angry with me, but let me make one more request. Let me use the fleece for one more test. This time let the fleece remain dry while the ground around it is wet with dew.”

40 So that night, God did as Gideon asked. The fleece was dry in the morning, but the ground was covered with dew.

What is Low Self-Esteem?

Low self-esteem is characterized by a negative perception of one’s self-worth and value. It often manifests as:

Lack of Confidence: Doubting one’s abilities and decisions.
Negative Self-Image: Viewing oneself as inadequate or unworthy.
Feelings of Inadequacy: Struggling with identity, capability, and belonging.

Self-esteem is more than just feeling good about ourselves. It involves understanding and valuing our own worth. This consists of acknowledging our thoughts, emotions, and strengths, while also embracing our dreams and goals. Self-esteem is the foundation of our confidence, helping us face life’s challenges. It fosters resilience, enabling us to accept our flaws and learn from our experiences.

Gideon’s Struggle with Self-Esteem

Gideon exemplifies someone who struggles with low self-esteem. When the angel of the Lord appeared to him, he responded timidly, Judges 6:15, “But Lord,” Gideon replied, “how can I rescue Israel? My clan is the weakest in the whole tribe of Manasseh, and I am the least in my entire family!”

Gideon saw himself as weak and insignificant. He doubted his ability to fulfill God’s call and questioned why the Father would choose him.

Gideon exhibited several symptoms of low self-worth:

Lack of Confidence: He doubted his ability to lead.
External Locus of Control: He believed his circumstances were beyond his control.
Worry and Doubt: He questioned God’s presence and promises.
Negative Self-Talk: He referred to himself as the least in his family.
Fear of Failure: He hesitated to act without repeated confirmation.

Gideon’s self-perception was in stark contrast to the Father’s evaluation of him.

God’s Perspective vs. Our Perspective

When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he greeted him with a title that seemed completely out of place: Judges 6:12, “The LORD is with you, O mighty man of valor.”

At the time, Gideon, who was hiding from the Midianites in a winepress threshing wheat. He hardly seemed like a hero. Instead, he was a coward struggling with an inferiority complex. This encounter is at once embarrassing and humorous. Gideon was skeptical and cynical. For all practical purposes, Gideon was the last man in Israel that the Father should have called to deliver the people.

However, the Father saw him in light of what he would become, “mighty man of valor.” Gideon’s mediocre self-assessment and feelings of weakness and inadequacy were entirely different from the Father’s perspective. This highlights that while we often view ourselves through our limitations, God sees our potential through His strength, knowing that our adequacy comes from Him.

And that is the point of the story.

Do We Need Proof to Believe What God Tells Us?

Gideon had heard the stories of the miracles the Father had performed for His people. But he had never experienced one. He wanted “proof.”

Judges 6:13 Gideon replied, “If the LORD is with us, why has all this happened to us? And where are all the miracles our ancestors told us about? Didn’t they say, ‘The LORD brought us up out of Egypt’? But now the LORD has abandoned us and handed us over to the Midianites.”

Gideon had heard the stories of the miracles the Father had performed for His people. But he had never experienced one. He needed “proof.” He is saying to the angel of the Lord, “Show me a miracle, and I will believe.”

Pause for a moment and imagine being in Gideon’s position. He had never encountered the presence of the living God, and suddenly an angel appeared with a profound mission. How would you respond?

REFLECT & PRAY

As children of the King, our strength comes from the Father, not ourselves. When we depend upon Him, we tap into His boundless power and wisdom. Stanley comments, “When the Spirit of the living God fills us, ‘impossibilities’ become possible.”

Father, thank You for being present with me. Thank You that when I am weak, I am made strong.

INSIGHT

Disobedience and Decline

The events in Judges 6 occurred during a period of spiritual decline in Israel. The Israelites turned away from God to worship false gods like Baal. As a consequence, God allows the Midianites to oppress them for seven years, causing poverty and starvation. This reflects the recurring cycle of sin and drifting from God that is characteristic of the Book of Judges. In their desperation, the Israelites cry out to God for help. He sends the angel of the Lord to Gideon, who is hiding and fearful. The angel complements Gideon, calling him a mighty man of valor. Gideon responds. “Who me?”

Some deliverer!

Gideon’s Transformation

Gideon’s journey from fear and doubt to faith was a gradual one; he struggled with insecurity and a lack of confidence in himself and God.

The Midianites caused great devastation and impoverishment. The people were emotionally overwhelmed. They were devastated and lost confidence in God. Gideon heard the stories of God’s wonderful works, but what had He done lately? Gideon challenged the angel of the Lord, Judges 6:13, “If the LORD is with us, why has all this happened to us? And where are all the miracles our ancestors told us about? . . . But now the LORD has abandoned us and handed us over to the Midianites.”Gideon wanted assurance that God would deliver the people, so he asked for a sign to confirm it.

The Fleece Test

In Judges 6:16, “The LORD said to him, ‘I will be with you.’” That’s great news, but so what! Doubters don’t want promises; they want proof!

In Judges 6:36-40, Gideon asks God for signs to confirm His promise to help him rescue Israel. He first places a fleece on the threshing floor, requesting that the fleece be wet with dew while the ground remains dry. God fulfills this request. Unsatisfied, Gideon asks for another sign, this time for the fleece to be dry while the ground is wet. God again complies, demonstrating His reassurance to Gideon.

Finally, Gideon was ready, and you know the rest of the story.

A Word about Fleece

Children of the King often misunderstand the significance of Gideon’s fleece. It’s important to remember two key points about this incident. First, Gideon was not seeking guidance from the fleece, as God had already instructed him on what to do. Instead, he was looking for confirmation and assurance of success.

MacDonald cautions that those who use the phrase “putting out a fleece” to seek the will of God in a specific matter are misinterpreting the passage.

Second, Gideon asked for a supernatural sign that could only occur through God’s direct action. Today, many people use everyday events as their “fleece,” which can occur naturally without any divine involvement.

God Uses the Inadequate to Accomplish the Impossible

The story of Gideon reminds us that God does not call the qualified; God qualifies the called. He often chooses the weak, the fearful, and the inadequate to accomplish His purposes. 1 Corinthians 1:27, “God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And He chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful.”

Success in the Father’s kingdom does not come from physical strength or human ability. It comes from dependence on Him.

Zechariah 4:6, “It is not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the LORD of Heaven’s Armies.”

When we rely on the Spirit of God, the impossible becomes possible.

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Left for dead ∙∙∙

Left for dead ∙∙∙

They stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, thinking he was dead. – Act 14:19

2 Corinthians 11:23-27

23 I know I sound like a madman, but I have served him far more! I have worked harder, been put in prison more often, been whipped times without number, and faced death again and again.

24 Five different times, the Jewish leaders gave me thirty-nine lashes.

25 Three times, I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked. Once I spent a whole night and a day adrift at sea.

26 I have traveled on many long journeys. I have faced danger from rivers and from robbers. I have faced danger from my own people, the Jews, as well as from the Gentiles. I have faced danger in the cities, in the deserts, and on the seas. And I have faced danger from men who claim to be believers but are not.

27 I have worked hard and long, enduring many sleepless nights. I have been hungry and thirsty and have often gone without food. I have shivered in the cold, without enough clothing to keep me warm.

Harry Ironside: A Life That Almost Wasn’t

Harry Ironside was born on October 14, 1876, in Toronto, Canada, under dire circumstances. His mother’s health was in critical condition, and all efforts focused on saving her life. Believed to be stillborn, the newborn Harry seemed destined for tragedy. However, the newborn was not ready to give up on his life’s purpose. A nurse detected a faint pulse and quickly placed him in a hot water bath. The tiny infant responded with a cry, a voice that would one day proclaim the gospel of Christ to millions around the world.

A Passion for Scripture

From a young age, Harry showed an extraordinary interest in Scripture. By the age of four, he had memorized his first Bible verse. Yet, despite his early exposure to the Word, he did not find peace with God until he was fourteen, when he accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his Savior.

A Remarkable Ministry

Harry Ironside’s life was a testament to God’s ability to use the unlikely. With only an eighth-grade education, he became one of the most renowned Bible teachers in the world. By the time he turned fourteen, he had read the Bible fourteen times. He later became associated with the Plymouth Brethren and, though never ordained, pastored Moody Memorial Church in Chicago for eighteen years. His story demonstrates that God’s plans consistently challenge and surpass human expectations. Despite having only an eighth-grade education, he emerged as one of the most respected and influential Bible teachers in the world.

Wrestling with Despair: When Life Feels Too Much

What could be more tragic than being born dead? Maybe it’s being born alive but wishing you had been “born dead.” Many have felt this way because of the traumas, disappointments, rejections, or abuse they’ve gone through.

Even great figures in Scripture wrestled with despair. Jonah, overwhelmed by frustration, cried out, Jonah 4:3, “Just kill me now, LORD! I’d rather be dead than alive if what I predicted does not happen.”

Similarly, Job, a man who suffered unimaginable loss, his family, wealth, and health, reached his breaking point. In his despair, he cursed the day he was born, Job 3:1, “At last Job spoke, and he cursed the day of his birth.”

Questioning God

Job’s suffering led him into a spiral of gloom, frustration, and anger. He questioned everything, including God’s justice and purpose. Like many of us, Job never expected to find answers.

The Father Shows Up

Job is startled and totally surprised when the Father, the King of the universe, shows up. The Father interrupts Job’s despair. Instead of offering explanations, the Father turns the tables and begins to interrogate Job. Through a series of questions, God reveals the vastness of His wisdom and the limitations of Job’s understanding (Job 38, 39). It is not unusual for people to question God; people do it all the time. Are we really prepared for the answer?

Job 40:1-2: “Then the LORD said to Job, ‘Do you still want to argue with the Almighty? You are God’s critic, but do you have the answers?’” Job’s response is one of humility: Job 40:3-5: “I am nothing, how could I ever find the answers? I will cover my mouth with my hand. I have said too much already. I have nothing more to say.”

Job’s Realization

Ultimately, Job comes to realize the futility of questioning the Almighty. He acknowledges God’s sovereignty and repents for his earlier words. Job responds, Job 42:1-4, “I know that you can do anything, and no one can stop you. You asked, ‘Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorance?’ It is I, and I was talking about things I knew nothing about, things far too wonderful for me.”

Job’s transformation is profound: Job 42:5-6: “I had only heard about you before, but now I have seen you with my own eyes. I take back everything I said and sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance.”

God’s Purpose in Suffering

Both Job and Harry Ironside’s stories remind us that the Father has a purpose and plan for all that He does. While we may not always understand the “whys” of our lives, they often become clear in hindsight.

Job’s Lesson: Suffering can lead to a deeper understanding of God’s sovereignty and wisdom.

Ironside’s Lesson: Even the most unlikely beginnings can lead to a life of extraordinary purpose when surrendered to God.

REFLECT & PRAY

The Father’s response to Job reminds us that His ways are higher than ours, and His wisdom is beyond our comprehension. Are you willing to surrender your doubts and trust that God’s plans are “far too wonderful” for you to fully understand?

Father, there have been so many times that I have questioned You. I wish I could take it all back. Help me to trust in Your wisdom and sovereignty, even when I don’t understand. Thank You for having a purpose and plan for my life, even in the midst of suffering.

INSIGHT

Paul’s Eternal Perspective

The apostle Paul endured immense suffering as he faithfully served the Father. From the very beginning of his ministry, Paul understood something that Job lacked: an eternal perspective. He recognized that living out his faith and staying true to the gospel came with a cost.

Paul had received a high calling and responsibility from the Father, and with that high calling came a high price. He was not naive about the challenges of his mission. Instead, he embraced them, knowing that his suffering was part of fulfilling God’s purpose for his life.

Paul’s Testimony of Endurance

In his letter to Timothy, Paul reflects on his life and ministry, offering a powerful testimony of endurance: 2 Timothy 3:10-11: “Timothy, you certainly know what I teach, and how I live, and what my purpose in life is. You know my faith, my patience, my love, and my endurance. You know how much persecution and suffering I have endured. You know all about how I was persecuted in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra, but the Lord rescued me from all of it.”

Paul’s words reveal several key truths:

Faithfulness in Teaching and Living: Paul’s life was consistent with his message. He lived out what he preached.
Endurance Through Persecution: Paul faced intense opposition, yet he persevered.
God’s Deliverance: Despite the suffering, Paul acknowledges that the Lord rescued him from every trial.

Paul does not sugarcoat the reality and hardships of following Christ. He makes it clear that suffering is not an exception but an expectation for those who live a godly life: 2 Timothy 3:12, “Yes, and everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.”

Faithfulness Comes with a Price

Paul’s life demonstrates that seeking to be faithful and godly is not a way to escape suffering; it is often a direct path to it. Living for Christ puts believers in direct opposition to the world’s values, making them targets for persecution.

A Front-Row Seat to Suffering

Paul’s willingness to suffer was not for his own benefit but for the sake of others and the gospel. He never asked others to suffer for him, but he was always ready to endure hardship for their sake. His suffering was the result of doing the right thing, standing firm in his faith, and proclaiming the truth.

Faithfulness in the Face of Trials

The Father does not promise a life free from suffering. Instead, He prepares His children for the inevitable challenges they will face. As Charles Stanley notes, this promise is not meant to discourage us but to equip us to shine for Him when the time comes. Paul encourages Timothy to remain steadfast: 2 Timothy 3:14: “But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you.”

This reminder is as relevant today as it was then. Faithfulness requires perseverance, trust in God’s Word, and reliance on the truth we have been taught.

Lessons from Job, Paul, and Harry

The stories of Job and Harry Ironside remind us that life’s greatest challenges often lead to the deepest revelations of God’s character. Job’s suffering brought him to a place of humility and awe, while Ironside’s unlikely beginning became the foundation for a life of global ministry.

The Father does not always explain the “whys” of our lives, but He calls us to trust Him. As Job discovered, God’s plans are far too wonderful for us to fully grasp. Let us, like Job, respond with humility and faith, knowing that the Father’s wisdom and purpose are perfect. Even in the midst of suffering, He is working for our good and His glory.

Paul’s life reminds us that the Christian journey is not without challenges, but it is worth every cost. His eternal perspective allowed him to endure persecution with patience, love, and faith. Paul’s life offers several key lessons:

Know Your Purpose: Paul never wavered in his understanding of his mission. He was determined to do the Father’s will at all costs.
Expect Opposition: Suffering and persecution are part of the Christian journey. They are not signs of failure but evidence of faithfulness.
Trust in God’s Deliverance: While suffering is inevitable, so is God’s faithfulness. He will rescue and sustain His children.
Shine in the Darkness: Suffering provides an opportunity to reflect God’s glory and demonstrate His power to a watching world.

As children of the King, we are called to the same high standard. The Father does not promise a life free from suffering, but He equips us to face it with courage and faith

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