Wednesday mornings at 6 am a group of men meet on a Google Meet for Bible study. We are journeying through Judges. Let that be an encouragement that men are rising early to study the scriptures and be shaped by them. We came across a verse and phrasing that captured us all. It was found in verse 4 of chapter 8. It said, “Then Gideon and the three hundred men who were with him came to the Jordan and crossed over, exhausted yet still pursuing.” This would be long if I went into all the little details so go read Judges, it’ll bless you. What struck us is God handed over the enemy and all they did was like yell and break glass. What also struck us is that God chose to show us in the text that even though the victory was won and we fight and live from victory not for it there is still effort and “work” that is done. At times that “work” is exhausting but we are called to still be faithful.
The beautiful reality for us in Christ is that he strengthens us to even do the work that is still “exhausting” so my encouragement to some who may be feeling what I’m saying in this post is this:
“Let us not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don’t give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us work for the good of all, especially for those who belong to the household of faith.” Galatians 6:9-10 CSB
I don’t know if I’m making sense today but it was cool that God allowed the scriptures to acknowledge that. I even want to encourage us to slow down and spend time in the Word of God. We’ve been in Judges for months and just now on Chapter 8 because the Lord will just reveal things and we take time to eat the bread that he gives us. I’m so encouraged today as a believer who’s been following and serving him for years. It’s an honor to serve him and partner on this mission. Be encouraged today and know that the “good exhaustion” will all be worth it in the end. Keep pursuing him and living a faithful life of obedience. He sees and knows. Receive the beautiful invitation from our Lord:
“Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, because I am lowly and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 CSB
Until Next Time
Demetrius