Unlikely Victories: Trusting God in Our Battles
Summary
### Summary
In our ongoing series about Gideon, we delve into the life of this unlikely hero from the Old Testament, drawing lessons that are profoundly relevant for us today. Gideon's story is a testament to God's love for the underdog and His ability to see potential in us even when we can't see it ourselves. Two weeks ago, we learned that we are overcomers in Christ, and last week, we discussed how fear and faith often coexist, urging us to step out in faith even when we are afraid. Today, we continue with Gideon's story, focusing on the battle against the Midianites, where God used unconventional means to bring about victory.
Gideon, instructed by God, reduced his army to just 300 men to face a vastly larger Midianite force. Armed with trumpets, jars, and torches instead of conventional weapons, Gideon and his men followed God's plan, which led to a miraculous victory. This story teaches us that God often uses what we already have, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to achieve His purposes. Gideon’s use of trumpets and jars was a reminder of past victories, like the fall of Jericho, showing that God can use the familiar and the common to bring about extraordinary outcomes.
We all face battles, whether they are addictions, anxiety, financial pressures, or health issues. The key is to remember that God is with us and has already equipped us with what we need to overcome. We often focus on what we lack, but God wants us to use what we have. Just as Gideon used what was at hand, we too can find victory by relying on our God-given resources and creativity. This week, take time to reflect on the ways God has helped you in the past and trust that He will do it again.
### Key Takeaways
1. God Sees Potential in Us Before We See It in Ourselves: Gideon was an unlikely hero, yet God called him a mighty warrior. This teaches us that God sees our potential and calls us to greatness even when we feel inadequate. Trust in God's vision for your life, for He knows your capabilities better than you do. [01:49]
2. Faith and Fear Often Coexist: Stepping out in faith doesn't mean the absence of fear. Gideon acted despite his fear, showing that courage is not the absence of fear but the decision to act in faith regardless. When facing daunting challenges, remember that God is with you, and the battle belongs to Him. [03:19]
3. God Uses What We Already Have: Gideon’s victory came through the use of common items like trumpets, jars, and torches. This illustrates that God often uses what we already possess to bring about His plans. Instead of focusing on what you lack, look at what you have and trust that God can use it for His glory. [10:46]
4. Remember Past Victories to Fuel Present Faith: Gideon’s use of the trumpet was a reminder of past victories like Jericho. Keeping a "God file" of past victories can strengthen our faith in current battles. Reflect on how God has helped you before and trust that He will do it again. [15:14]
5. God’s Silence is Not Absence: Sometimes God gives specific instructions, and other times He is silent, allowing us to use our creativity and resources. Trust that God’s silence is not His absence; He has already equipped you with what you need to face your current challenges. [12:17]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:49] - God Sees Potential in Us
[03:19] - Faith and Fear Coexist
[04:48] - Gideon's Unconventional Battle Plan
[06:19] - Applying Gideon's Story to Our Lives
[07:39] - Common Battles We Face
[08:58] - The Reality of Constant Battles
[10:46] - God Uses What We Have
[12:17] - Trusting God in His Silence
[13:34] - The Power of the Trumpet
[15:14] - Remembering Past Victories
[16:52] - The God File vs. The Devil File
[18:17] - Homework: Reflecting on God's Help
[19:45] - God's Help in Everyday Life
[21:08] - Using Common Resources
[22:43] - You Have What You Need
[24:24] - God Wins the Battle
[26:05] - Living the Sermon: Personal Testimony
[27:39] - Trusting God in Crisis
[29:57] - Creativity in Crisis
[31:21] - Conclusion: Trust and Creativity
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Judges 7:15-22 (NIV)
> "When Gideon heard the dream and its interpretation, he bowed down and worshiped. He returned to the camp of Israel and called out, 'Get up! The Lord has given the Midianite camp into your hands.' Dividing the three hundred men into three companies, he placed trumpets and empty jars in the hands of all of them, with torches inside. 'Watch me,' he told them. 'Follow my lead. When I get to the edge of the camp, do exactly as I do. When I and all who are with me blow our trumpets, then from all around the camp blow yours and shout, "For the Lord and for Gideon."' Gideon and the hundred men with him reached the edge of the camp at the beginning of the middle watch, just after they had changed the guard. They blew their trumpets and broke the jars that were in their hands. The three companies blew the trumpets and smashed the jars. Grasping the torches in their left hands and holding in their right hands the trumpets they were to blow, they shouted, 'A sword for the Lord and for Gideon!' While each man held his position around the camp, all the Midianites ran, crying out as they fled. When the three hundred trumpets sounded, the Lord caused the men throughout the camp to turn on each other with their swords. The army fled to Beth Shittah toward Zererah as far as the border of Abel Meholah near Tabbath."
2. Joshua 6:20 (NIV)
> "When the trumpets sounded, the army shouted, and at the sound of the trumpet, when the men gave a loud shout, the wall collapsed; so everyone charged straight in, and they took the city."
3. Psalm 103:2-5 (NIV)
> "Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s."
#### Observation Questions
1. What unconventional items did Gideon and his men use in their battle against the Midianites, and what was the outcome? (Judges 7:15-22)
2. How did the Israelites achieve victory at Jericho, and what role did the trumpet play in that victory? (Joshua 6:20)
3. According to Psalm 103:2-5, what are some of the benefits that the psalmist encourages us not to forget?
4. In the sermon, what were some of the common battles mentioned that people face today? [07:39]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think God chose to use such unconventional means (trumpets, jars, and torches) for Gideon's victory? What does this say about God's methods? (Judges 7:15-22)
2. How does the story of Jericho (Joshua 6:20) serve as a reminder for Gideon and his men? What past victories can we recall to strengthen our faith in current battles? [13:34]
3. Psalm 103:2-5 lists several benefits of God's faithfulness. How can remembering these benefits impact our approach to current challenges?
4. The sermon mentioned that God sometimes gives specific instructions and other times remains silent, allowing us to use our creativity. How can we discern when to wait for God's direction and when to act with the resources we have? [10:46]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt inadequate but God saw potential in you. How did that experience shape your faith and actions? [01:49]
2. Think about a current fear you are facing. How can you step out in faith despite that fear, trusting that God is with you? [03:19]
3. Identify a common item or resource in your life that you often overlook. How can you use it creatively to address a current challenge you are facing? [22:43]
4. Take a moment to recall past victories where God has helped you. How can these memories fuel your faith in your present situation? [15:14]
5. When was the last time you felt God's silence in your life? How did you respond, and what did you learn from that experience? [12:17]
6. This week, take 15 minutes to write down ways God has helped you in the past. How can this exercise strengthen your trust in God's provision for your current battles? [19:45]
7. How can you use your current talents, relationships, and resources to overcome a specific challenge you are facing right now? [24:24]
Devotional
Day 1: God Sees Potential in Us Before We See It in Ourselves
Gideon was an unlikely hero, yet God called him a mighty warrior. This teaches us that God sees our potential and calls us to greatness even when we feel inadequate. Trust in God's vision for your life, for He knows your capabilities better than you do. Gideon’s story is a powerful reminder that God often chooses the least likely individuals to accomplish His purposes. When Gideon was called, he was hiding in a winepress, feeling insignificant and fearful. Yet, God addressed him as a "mighty warrior," seeing beyond his current state to the potential within him. This is a profound lesson for us today: God’s perspective of us is not limited by our self-doubt or current circumstances. He sees what we can become through His power and grace.
In our own lives, we may feel unqualified or overwhelmed by the tasks God sets before us. However, it is crucial to remember that God’s calling comes with His enabling. He equips those He calls, and His strength is made perfect in our weakness. Embrace the identity God has given you and step into the roles He has prepared for you, trusting that He sees and will bring out the best in you. [01:49]
Judges 6:12 (ESV): "And the angel of the Lord appeared to him and said to him, 'The Lord is with you, O mighty man of valor.'"
Reflection: Think of a time when you felt inadequate or unqualified. How can you trust in God’s vision for your life and step into the potential He sees in you today?
Day 2: Faith and Fear Often Coexist
Stepping out in faith doesn't mean the absence of fear. Gideon acted despite his fear, showing that courage is not the absence of fear but the decision to act in faith regardless. When facing daunting challenges, remember that God is with you, and the battle belongs to Him. Gideon’s journey was marked by moments of fear and doubt, yet he chose to obey God’s commands. This coexistence of faith and fear is a common experience for many believers. It is important to understand that feeling afraid does not disqualify us from being used by God. Instead, it is our response to fear that matters.
When we choose to act in faith despite our fears, we demonstrate trust in God’s promises and His presence. Gideon’s story encourages us to move forward even when we are uncertain or afraid, knowing that God is with us and will guide us through our challenges. Let this truth empower you to face your fears with faith, trusting that God will provide the strength and courage you need. [03:19]
Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
Reflection: Identify a current fear or challenge you are facing. How can you take a step of faith today, trusting that God is with you and will help you overcome it?
Day 3: God Uses What We Already Have
Gideon’s victory came through the use of common items like trumpets, jars, and torches. This illustrates that God often uses what we already possess to bring about His plans. Instead of focusing on what you lack, look at what you have and trust that God can use it for His glory. Gideon’s unconventional battle plan, which involved only 300 men armed with trumpets, jars, and torches, highlights a significant principle: God can use the ordinary to achieve the extraordinary. This story teaches us that we do not need to wait for perfect conditions or extraordinary resources to be used by God. He can work through the simple and the common to accomplish His purposes.
In our lives, we often focus on our limitations and what we lack, but God calls us to recognize and utilize what we already have. Whether it is a talent, a resource, or an opportunity, God can use it for His glory if we offer it to Him in faith. Reflect on the gifts and resources you possess and consider how God might be calling you to use them in new and creative ways for His kingdom. [10:46]
1 Corinthians 1:27 (ESV): "But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong."
Reflection: What is one ordinary resource or talent you have that you can offer to God today? How can you use it creatively to serve Him and others?
Day 4: Remember Past Victories to Fuel Present Faith
Gideon’s use of the trumpet was a reminder of past victories like Jericho. Keeping a "God file" of past victories can strengthen our faith in current battles. Reflect on how God has helped you before and trust that He will do it again. The act of remembering past victories is a powerful tool for building faith. Gideon’s use of the trumpet, reminiscent of the fall of Jericho, served as a tangible reminder of God’s faithfulness and power. By recalling how God has worked in the past, we can find the strength and confidence to face present challenges.
In our spiritual journey, it is beneficial to keep a record of God’s faithfulness—whether through journaling, prayer, or sharing testimonies. These reminders can serve as anchors in times of doubt and difficulty, helping us to trust that the same God who delivered us before will do so again. Take time to reflect on the ways God has been faithful in your life and let those memories fuel your faith for the present and future. [15:14]
Psalm 77:11-12 (ESV): "I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds."
Reflection: Take a moment to write down three specific instances where you have experienced God’s help and faithfulness. How can these memories encourage you in your current situation?
Day 5: God’s Silence is Not Absence
Sometimes God gives specific instructions, and other times He is silent, allowing us to use our creativity and resources. Trust that God’s silence is not His absence; He has already equipped you with what you need to face your current challenges. There are times in our spiritual journey when God’s voice seems silent, and we may feel abandoned or unsure of what to do next. However, it is important to understand that God’s silence does not equate to His absence. In these moments, God often invites us to use the wisdom, creativity, and resources He has already provided.
Gideon’s story illustrates this principle as he had to rely on God’s previous instructions and his own ingenuity to achieve victory. Trusting in God’s presence, even in silence, requires faith and discernment. It encourages us to seek God’s guidance through prayer, scripture, and the counsel of others while also stepping out in faith with the tools and abilities we have been given. Remember that God is always with you, equipping you for the journey ahead. [12:17]
Isaiah 30:21 (ESV): "And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, 'This is the way, walk in it,' when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you felt God was silent. How did you navigate that season, and what resources or wisdom did you rely on? How can you apply that experience to your current situation?
Quotes
1. "In fact, going back two weeks ago, we learned that God loves the underdog. And then you know what? He calls you a hero. He has hopes in you before you even have hopes in yourself. And the takeaway from that week was that you are an overcomer in Christ. No matter what you are up against right now, what's making you nervous, what's making you scared, you are an overcomer in Christ." [01:49] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "In a nutshell, God does the impossible here. When the 300 men, including Gideon, they found that there was a victory and it shouldn't have happened. The odds were against them. They were the underdogs. 300 against thousands and thousands and thousands of soldiers. Now, God brought the victory in an awkward and unorthodox way." [06:19] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We all have Achilles heels, and maybe your addiction is something like, you know, like to screens. Or maybe your addiction is to buying things. In fact, you didn't buy anything from Amazon this week, and the Amazon driver knocked on your door just to make sure you're okay, right? You know? Maybe it's a more, I mean, kind of like a harder addiction. Maybe it's something that, maybe it's like, you know, closet alcoholic, or maybe pornography, or something like that, that you just know. It like controls you, and it's hard for you to not do it." [07:39] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "I've learned in life, you're always in a battle, like always. Now, they may not be big battles. It might be a big battle, but like if you're not battling a big battle, maybe you're in a season where it's a little bit easier, and maybe you're battling laziness now. You see, here's the thing. We all battle all the time. In fact, everybody is fighting a battle. Everyone is, you know?" [08:58] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Sometimes God will give you specific instructions in life. And other times, he allows you to do your creative best to accomplish the task at hand. So important, because a lot of times, we want God to constantly communicate every single detail to us. Of our life. But at least in my experience, and in Gideon's, that's not what he did." [12:17] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Repeat this after me. Ready? I have what I need. Okay, one, two, three. I have what I need. Right now, you have the talent that God's given you. You have the relationships, the positive ones that God has given you. You have the resource that God has given you. You have the mind that God has given you. You have the verbal skills, the writing skills, the intuition. The discernment, all the things that God has given you." [24:24] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "The truth is, what you have right now is enough because here's the reason why. God is with you. Those things aren't going to help you win your battle. God wins your battle. And he's already given you what you need. In fact, it says in 2 Peter 1, verse 3, it says, for his divine power has bestowed, kind of an old English term there, but on us, absolutely everything necessary for a dynamic spiritual life and godliness. In other words, you already have what you need." [24:24] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "Has God ever helped you before? Then he will do it again. You see, if God helped you before, then he'll do it again. This is kind of, you could say, why Gideon was, you know, said, we're going to blow a trumpet. Why? Again, God didn't say to blow a trumpet. God didn't give instruction of this. Instead, Gideon remembered what won the victory before. And that was blowing the trumpet, shouting in worship. And guess what? He's like, we're going to do that again. It worked before. God answered the prayers before. He'll do it again." [15:14] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "We all have a file. Now it may not be a physical file, but it is a mental file. Some of you have heard me talk about this before, but it's kind of a God file. These are moments that we remember when God has given us a victory. And he's like, we're going to do this that God has saved us. He's rescued us. He has given us victory over the enemy. He has given us breakthrough, even when we didn't see it coming. It's a God file." [16:52] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "And many times we forget what God has done, but there's a God file. Has God ever given you a victory before? Then guess what? He will again. And you'll have another testimony to put into your God file, right? There's a God file. Unfortunately, we also have a devil file. These are the times that the enemy has tried to take us out. These are the times that maybe even we've made mistakes. But guess what? All of the mistakes that we've made when we come to Jesus and say, forgive me, he washes us white as snow, the Bible says." [16:52] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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