One of the greatest barriers to a life of victory is living in a culture or environment of restraint; living surrounded by people who feel forsaken, abandoned and hopeless, without a vision. It causes you to focus on oppression and negatives; rather than positives and possibilities. God wants us to be people of vision and faith to be free to receive from Him blessings and empowerment from His Spirit.
RELEVANCE
In the Bible is a story about Gideon. We find him hiding in seclusion, afraid of being seen by the Midianites, a local terrorizing group. When approached by the Angel of the LORD, he whimpers, filled with fear. The Angel pays no attention to his whining, but instead encourages him with three words from God. Hearing and receiving God’s appointed and anointed words brought encouragement, inspiration, courage, confidence and peace.
“Go in this might of yours, and you shall saveIsraelfrom the hand of the Midianites. Have I not sent you?”
“Surely I will be with you, and you shall defeat the Midianites as one man.”
“Peace be with you; do not fear, you shall not die.”
Gideon became inspired! He embraced a new vision! He did in fact prevail! With a small army of just three hundred men, they defeated the larger enemy. The lonely fearful man and his little band of warriors became victorious—in God’s might.
REFLECT AND RELATE
Consider your environment and culture in which you live. What external influences do you see restraining your vision, growth and hope? Pray for God to give you a fresh vision. Keep praying for Him to intervene. You likely will need to persevere until He changes things and opens doors of opportunity. Go about your business, however, in this new might: God’s faithfulness, encouragement of His word and strength of His Spirit. Seek new fellowship to surround yourself with people of active trusting faith in God.
REFERENCES
Acts 2:40-42