Oct
22
Transformed
Filed Under Devotional
It’s fun watching a transformation. Americans get a kick out of seeing the underdog transformed into a champion. People watch TV shows based on transforming old, out-of-style homes into something amazing or transforming people with poor clothing skills into fashionistas. We cheer stories about the addict or alcoholic transforming his life into something productive.
We love seeing it. I was reminded how much fun it is to witness the transformations God performs as I read about Gideon. This was the classic zero-to-hero story. He’s so unsure and doubtful that a visit from the angel of the Lord didn’t even convince him of his calling at first:
“When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.”
“But sir,” Gideon replied, “if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders that our fathers told us about when they said, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up out of Egypt?’ But now the Lord has abandoned us and put us in the hand of Midian.” ” Judges 6:12-13
In modern parlance, Gideon basically said, “Yeah, right.” He was a nobody in a people that was getting slowly starved to death by its enemies. He didn’t want to stand out. He didn’t buy it.
He had to ask for proof over and over from God. But, he finally believed. And, when he did, he was all in. There was no halfway about it.
“When Gideon heard the dream and its interpretation, he worshiped God. He returned to the camp of Israel and called out, “Get up! The Lord has given the Midianite camp into your hands.” ” Judges 7:15
He was convinced. Then he led by example:
” ‘Watch me,’ he told them. ‘Follow my lead. When I get to the edge of the camp, do exactly as I do.’ ” Judges 7:17
Not only is it fun to watch, but it makes me want it, too. I want to be an all-out follower of Christ. I don’t want to second guess or try to negotiate with Him.
I want to be transformed.