Good morning
How’s the ask coming along? In today’s Holy Nougat, we nibble on one of Gideon’s petitions to God.
“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. Don’t go away until I come back and bring my offering to you.” He answered, “I will stay here until you return.”” Judges 6:17-18 NLT
Gideon was very clear about his ask. He wanted confirmation that he was being sent by God to confront and overthrow the Midianites. While we may question his doubts; we are definitely able to learn from his methodology.
In case you are unfamiliar with Gideon, he was the unapologetically cowardly judge of Israel in the era before the kings. So much so that he would have made a great spy – all his actions were covert! Made in secret or under the cover of darkness. Not a poster child for leadership nor military strategy. Nevertheless, he was God’s choice.
In the story surrounding today’s Holy Nougat, there is no mention of Gideon having a close relationship with God prior to the cave experience. In fact, his father dabbled in idolatry. This suggests that we don’t have to be an expert intercession or have a long-standing relationship to pray to God. Our asking is NOT contingent upon the length of our relationship, but on our willingness to be open with God. We learn from Gideon that openness and honesty are important to God.
How honest is our ask? Do we beat around the bush, attempting sweet nothings to God when we are dying inside?
Gideon was open with God; he dared to ask God about Israel’s suffering at the hands of the Midianites. He was disgruntled about the ‘NO’ and was not afraid to say that to God. He was clear that he questioned God’s credibility in suggesting that Israel could defeat the enemy. Being honest sometimes requires us admitting our unbelief before God in order to try to move on.
Are we willing to confess our fears to God even before our ask?
Gideon sought confirmation of God’s presence in his ask. What he was hearing did not fall in the ‘predictable’ move of God; Gideon took no chances. So ought we also ensure that we are seeking God’s face in our ask.
Towards the end of his ask, Gideon offered a sacrifice, which in his era was considered an act of worship. When we go before the presence of God, we ought also reverence God. For we are the created, not the Creator. And in the course of our worship; we should be able to confirm that we are in the presence of God.
As we approach Our God today or any other day; let us be open and speak to God as a friend or family member (a lady suggests ‘seeing’ God in a chair across from us and speaking naturally). We are mindful to listen for God’s response as we are in a conversation, not a monologue. When we make our petitions, we offer sacrifices of praise before our God. We strive to be honest, naming our fears and concerns even as we declare our ask in very clear terms (assuming that we know what we desire).
Doable? Then let’s pray!
In Christ’s love and grace . . .
