THE CHILDREN'S USEFULNESS

Gideon, one of the Judges, spoke of himself as "the least in my father's house". Of course he was not just a child but his early history shows us how God can use a young but faithful believer in His service.

As a foundation in his soul Gideon had thought much about God's deliverance of His people from being slaves of a wicked king. He had listened to the glad tidings of God's power in freeing them. The gospel which we now hear tells us of the great work of the Lord Jesus at Calvary which has delivered us from the penalty of our sins. We can thus say with the apostle Paul, "the Son of God, who has loved me and given himself for me".

Then Gideon's diligence proved that in his faith he had also virtue. He protected the supply of precious food so much needed. You will remember that Ruth too, in the time of the Judges, was a careful gleaner who gathered in one gleaning an 'ephah' of grain - more than six gallons dry measure! This amount of manna in the wilderness was enough to feed ten men. God in grace made it easy for Ruth but - also in His grace - - He enabled Gideon to overcome many difficulties. Every word of Jesus and each thought we have of Him provides food for the soul and can feed others as well. Even when He fed the multitude the Lord commanded to gather the fragments, "that nothing may be lost".

When Jehovah appeared to him Gideon showed his devotion. There was much self-sacrifice in a time of famine in bringing a "present" - a kid of the goats and unleavened cakes. Making ready this peaceoffering took a long time but the heavenly Visitor waited and then consumed it by fire. This showed that, although holy, God accepted Gideon in favour and not for judgment. Now that the Holy Spirit dwells in obedient believers we do not have visits such as this but can at all times enjoy in our own spirits God's favour towards us - and devote ourselves to His interests.

The result of these experiences was a doxology or 'glory-word'. Gideon built an altar, which for Christians means the enjoyment of holy friendship with God through the work of Jesus. Because he saw how he had been blessed he called the altar "Jehovah Shallom" meaning 'God of Peace'. It is one of the many things in the Scriptures said to be there "to this day". Can you find some more?

J.C.Evershed