Family Connection – Gideon

In the car...

Today’s lesson – Gideon

Gideon was the so-called “runt” of his tribe. He was not as strong and confident as the others that he grew up with. While his tribe had forgotten about God and were worshiping other gods, an angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon and told him to be confident and to stand up for God.

As you drive around, point out the different sizes in cars. Discuss as a family how larger cars or trucks have a sense of confidence about them and smaller cars seem to get lost amongst them. This must be how Gideon felt in his tribe — small and lost amongst them. So when the angel gave him instructions to stand up for God, Gideon was doubtful it should be him that the Lord chose.

At home...

Read Judges 6-8

Gideon struggled with being chosen by God. He believed it should’ve been somebody stronger in the tribe so that people would follow God and not retaliate against him. Gideon struggled with letting God reveal His strength through him. This is exactly what God wanted: to show that He is mighty, not Gideon. But Gideon needed to have mighty faith in God.

As a family, talk about times you witnessed the strength of the Lord. Describe the situations and the outcomes. Challenge yourselves this week to report on how God strengthens you each day.

Around the table...

When Gideon met the angel of the Lord he asked for the meat to be cooked without fire. The angel did it to strengthen Gideon’s faith in the Lord. Then Gideon asked for more proof from God that it was really Him that was asking Gideon to do these extraordinary things. God fulfilled each of Gideon’s requests.

As you enjoy your meal together, discuss the miracles of God that have been present in your lives and share how these miracles have strengthened your faith in our mighty God.

GO DEEPER: Gideon was weak in stature and faith. Through this Bible HIS-story we see the Lord’s strength and ability to strengthen our faith in Him. Talk about a time that you recognized God working in your weaknesses.