Once Gideon got over his fears and insecurities as the leader who was to set his people free, he became quite creative in his leadership style.
Dividing the three hundred men into three companies, he placed trumpets and empty jars in the hands of all of them, with torches inside. "Watch me," he told them. "Follow my lead. When I get to the edge of the camp, do exactly as I do. When I and all who are with me blow our trumpets, then from all around the camp blow yours and shout, ‘For the Lord and for Gideon'” (Judges 7:16-18).
First, he asked the angel of the Lord for a confirmation that He was God's messenger when they met. Then he requested a sign which involved the fleece and the dew. Finally, Gideon asked for one more confirmation, and God allowed him to overhear someone who had a dream of a barley loaf striking the Midianites—the loaf representing Gideon and his army.
After God's will was confirmed, Gideon became a creative genius as a military leader, coming up with the plan to utilize his out-manned army in such a way that the enemy would be surprised and overwhelmed, thus defeating themselves. Once timid, Gideon boldly told his men to "watch me" and then to shout his name, along with God's, as the army's battle cry.
Like Gideon, are you bold in your approach to life and purpose? Do you devise creative strategies to accomplish the tasks God has assigned you to do? Are you waiting on God to do what He expects you to do? Are you willing to put yourself "out there" for people to watch for direction and inspiration? God is still looking for people who are willing to be purpose champions for others. I encourage you to make yourself available to be one of them.
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