Home > Reading > The Daily Lectionary – August 7, 2016

judges6-16

Judges 6:1–24; 2 Corinthians 9:6–15; Mark 3:20–30

In the sixth chapter of Judges, the Lord appeared before Gideon and directed him to lead his clan against the Midianites in order to save Israel. Gideon had apprehensions about taking up the task. He acknowledged his clan to be weak and himself as least in his father’s house. The Lord said “I will be with you.” Gideon requested a sign that it really was God who was talking to him. The Lord responded and encouraged him saying “Do not be afraid.”

It seems that often our greatest challenges appear in our weakest moments. In the doctor’s office or an emergency room, on a battle field, on the cusp of seemingly overwhelming tasks, like Gideon, we can find ourselves in postures of fear. In such moments, our faith meets its greatest challenges. Many I know draw comfort in such moments from the Psalms and other passages from God’s Holy Word. As the Lord promised Gideon, Jesus reassures us today in Matthew 28:20 saying, “I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” God knows the challenges we face in this world. In your fearful moments, exercise your faith and talk to the Lord in prayer.

Prayer: Gracious God, source of our strength, bolster us in our moments of fear and anguish to place our complete trust in your enduring promise that you are truly with us during our times of greatest need as our loving and supportive heavenly Father. Amen.

Today’s devotion was written by Rev. Robert V. Alle, NALC Pastor.

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