Judges 6:12-13a
Oh God, why is this happening I shouted after hanging up the phone. Our family had moved five times in four years and this move, to work with a Christian organization, was supposed to be help with the financial stability we desperately needed after years of educational pursuits. Now, four months later, learning a new city and sitting in a house that was waiting for our furniture I listened to my husband’s voice over the phone. His new Christian employers had reneged on the job. An injustice, done by “Christians”, was particularly painful. Where was God?
Gideon lived the upheaval of having to move frequently. Israel was under an oppressive regime that swarmed over them devouring their crops, destroying their pastures, consuming their lives. Gideon ran and hid in a cave. I understand why, when assured of the LORD’s presence, he asks, why then has all this happened.
There are times when I want to retreat to the nearest cave! Retreat seems my only choice when, afraid that if I poke out my head, I will feel the smack of another blow. I ask, why then has all this happened? I ask because Gideon had remained faithful to the LORD but it didn’t protect him from trouble.
The LORD never does answer Gideon’s "why" question. Instead the LORD responds by giving Gideon a task that seems beyond his ability! And when Gideon objects, the response he hears isn’t an answer but a promise...I will be with you.
Jesus help me to accept the unexpected
within the security of your promise,"I will be with you."
AMEN.
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