Daily Readings (Page 211)

The preparation process continues after Jesus’ crucifixion.  Here the disciples were given specific instructions about God’s plan to turn them into His witnesses.  What were they told to do?

Jesus is preparing his disciples for the time that He would no longer be with them physically, by helping them to understand the work of the Holy Spirit.  What did they learn about the Holy Spirit?

Despite God’s faithfulness and Gideon’s earlier obedience, he turned away from the Lord by leading the people into improper worship practices.  How may this challenge us to pray for our leaders that they may persevere in life long godliness?

How did the personal response of Gideon to Zebah and Zalmunna remind us that we should not take things into our own hand but to depend on God’s judgment?

The defeat of the Midianites was interesting: no Israelite swords were needed, only torches, trumpets, and jars — affirming again that victory was the result of obedience.  How may this help us in our trust in God?

How did the interpretation of the dream give Gideon the confirmation that he needed to trust in God, in the light of his earlier fear (v10)?

What can we learn from the way God selected the final 300 to fight with Gideon?

God has often “tested” our faith but when Gideon “tested” God, it was equivalent to challenging the Almighty; still God acceded to the requests.  What are the lessons behind these “tests”?

Gideon obeyed, and destroyed the altar of Baal.  Are there “altars of Baal” in our lives that need to be destroyed too?

God called Gideon to be the next judge of Israel.  Note Gideon’s response (v15) when he was called and how God has given him the assurance (v16).  Let us be similarly assured as we heed God’s calling.