Look for Another Solution

While working on a project, do you ever say to yourself, “Something is missing…”—but then, after making a few changes, you still don’t see the desired results? When that happens, do you give up or look for another solution? Perhaps, even though possibly uncomfortable, looking for yet another solution would not be a bad idea—especially if that new way would bear much fruit. 

In the book of Judges, the Word of God speaks of Gideon, a character who was not a soldier, was not someone important among his own, and was the youngest of his family. In chapter 6, we see Gideon satisfied with his work until God appeared to him and took him out of his comfort zone, and gave him an assignment. Gideon was so afraid of facing the Midianites that he had a difficult time accepting the mission that God was giving him. Gideon felt overwhelmed because he did not see himself as a warrior—he even said that his clan was weak, and he did not believe that his people were going to do anything that he asked of them.

In chapter 7, we read that God instructed Gideon in his training—knowing that many of those men who went with Gideon were afraid, and others went with bad intentions. Interestingly enough, God´s strategy for Gideon was to take his army from 22,000 men to merely 300 soldiers.  

Judges 7:7-8 (NIV) reads:

“The LORD said to Gideon, 'With the three hundred men … I will save you and give the Midianites into your hands. Let all the others go home.' So Gideon sent the rest of the Israelites home but kept the three hundred, who took over the provisions and trumpets of the others.'”

In these verses we can see that God does not require an expert nor does He need much to carry out a great plan. But God does use those who have a willing heart and are ready to obey Him to fulfill His plans and purposes.

We read in Luke that Jesus told Simon Peter to put the nets in deep water and then to “let down the nets for a catch.” 

Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.” When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. So, they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.” (Luke 5:5-7)

Now, after reading those verses, let me ask you: Have you put your project or situation in God's hands? He is the One who can give you the guidance and the strategy to be able to carry out the assignment. Along the way, there might be things that need to be removed or added to make it better. But your obedience and willingness to follow Him will make all the difference.

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Scripture is quoted from the Holy Bible, New International Version^®, NIV^® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.^® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.