Faith: the Call that Defines
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The dialogue between the angel of the Lord and Gideon is not V 7, p 104 p 104 without its humorous undertones, as Gideon, described as a mighty man of valour (12) and as the prospective saviour of his people, protests, in contrast, his utter inadequacy and weakness. However, it is when a man is fully conscious of his own weakness and the difficulties of the situation that the Lord can take and use him. The man who relies upon his own innate strength is not likely to draw upon the Lord’s grace, nor give him the glory for anything that is achieved. It is also equally true that the Lord saw not only the man that was—weak and timorous, but the man that could be—strong, resolute and courageous.
The second assurance of the Lord (16) seems to have had a greater effect upon Gideon. In passing, it should be observed that there are timeless assurances in verses 14 and 16 for all those who are called to the work of the Lord. There is might in the consciousness of the Lord’s commission (14); there is a greater might in the consciousness of divine companionship (16). Have not I sent thee? and Surely I will be with thee have their New Testament parallel in Matthew 28:19, 20 and they have been a source of strength and inspiration to many who, like Gideon, have been called to the Lord’s service.