The One Encounter You Need
One of the Bible stories I deeply identify with is the story of Gideon.
We find Gideon at a low point in his life. His family and his nation were being oppressed by surrounding nations. The Bible says “the children of Israel were greatly impoverished.” Things were so bad that Gideon, overwhelmed and afraid, was hiding his own family's harvest.
But by the end of his life, Gideon's name was changed to Jerubbaal and he was celebrated. He became the man known for delivering Israel from their oppressors.
How did this man go from low self-esteem and fear to becoming a ruler, deliverer, husband of many wives, and father of seventy sons?
He had an encounter with God.
In that encounter, the first thing the Lord did was call Gideon a mighty man of valor. When God found him, he was hiding. But the Lord didn’t define him by his present condition. He called him according to who He created him to be.
The Bible says, “God, who gives life to the dead and calls those things which do not exist as though they did” (Romans 4:17). In spite of everything you’ve been through, God is calling you a new creation, an overcomer, holy, and His masterpiece—among many other gracious things. Be like Gideon and accept what God says about you. God is the God of truth, and He sees who you really are.
The second thing the Lord did was reveal Gideon’s assignment.
Just like Gideon, you have a divine assignment. It's your responsibility to discover what it is.
In a recent message, Pastor Maurice spoke about this. You can listen to it [here]. He touched on the importance and benefits of discovering God’s will for your life. And the good news? It’s not hard to discover or get started. You are already equipped. Scripture tells us: “Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is” (Ephesians 5:17).
Before I share the final point, a quick reminder:
Pastor Maurice’s birthday is August 4th! We’ll be receiving a special birthday offering for him on Sunday, August 3rd. Set some cash aside now to be a blessing to your pastor. Let’s show him honor and gratitude.
Now, the final thing the Lord gave Gideon—and what He’s giving you: His presence.
God said to Gideon, “I am with you.” That same promise is yours today.
Know this: God is with you as you pursue your purpose. He has promised never to leave you or forsake you. So if you feel alone, He is with you. If you feel overwhelmed, He is with you. If you feel stuck, He is there to help.
As I close, remember this:
You are a new creation.
You are more than a conqueror.
You are holy and God’s masterpiece.
God has given you an assignment.
And best of all—He is with you right now, wherever you are.
