Life is full of possibilities, but many are living with their eyes closed, not kicking up any dust, simply a day-to-day existence. Perhaps you have made mistakes, lack confidence, don’t think God can use you in a significant way. We often miss God-given opportunities because we can’t see ourselves as a dynamic Christian, as a leader, boldly moving in the power of God’s spirit. If that’s how you see yourself, you are underestimating your potential, limiting your God-given possibilities. Maybe you are concerned about what others will think or say. When you choose to follow God you will have opponents, not everyone will cheer you, but when God if for you, who can be against you? “No one”, says Paul in Romans 8. You may be exhausted from trying to fight battles under your own power, functioning in your own strength. To live boldly you must allow God to give you a glimpse of your potential. He is saying, “I know you. I made you. I’m with you. I’m for you.” God believes in you. Will you believe in God and allow him to work in and through your life so you can boldly seize the opportunities he places before you? God wants to have a personal relationship with you. 

Scriptures – Ephesians 5:15-16; 1 Corinthians 2:9; Judges 6:11-17, 23-24, 29-30, 34, 7:2-3; Matthew 6:34

Verses – Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. (Ephesians 5:15-16) But the spirit of the Lord took possession of Gideon and he sounded the trumpet, and the Abiezrites were called out to follow him. (Judges 6:34)

Thought – In Judges 6 &7, we read about Gideon, an unlikely candidate for bold leadership. God found Gideon cowering in the winepress hiding from the Midianites, and God called him out to defend Israel. Israel had been overrun by Midian. They were under attack, hungry, discouraged and merely surviving. God spoke to Gideon, calling him “mighty warrior.” God encouraged and affirmed Gideon promising that He would be with him giving strength and help. God tested Gideon by commanding him to break down the altar and idol that Gideon’s father had set up to a false God. Israel had fallen into pagan worship, trying to blend with culture and mixing religious practices while not being faithful to the One True God. Gideon passed the test and God commissioned him to call an army and launch an attack on the Midianites. While 32,000 answered the call, God allowed only 300 troops to participate against the 135,000 strong forces of Midian. Armed only with trumpets, clay pots and torches, Gideon and his army caused such a clamor, that the Midianites turned against themselves, killing their own, and 100,000 died that day, while Gideon and his men watched. God received all the glory. God has no limits. He can use you to do bold and amazing things for Him if you allow Him to work through your life and seize the opportunities He places before you. He may test you, but if you are faithful, He will use you in ways you never dreamed possible.

Questions – Describe some times when God asked you to do something bold for him? Did you do it, or not? Explain. What was the outcome? How has God tested you? Did you pass the test? If you feel you should do something that’s sort of “out there”, how do you know it’s God speaking to you? Have you been opposed or confronted because of following God’s call? Are you “on call” for God? Can he count on you?

Response – Pretend God is asking, “What have you done for me lately?” If you can’t think of anything, maybe it’s time to truly have a come-to-Jesus conversation. Make yourself available to God. Allow Him to use you.

Prayer – Mighty God, I entrust my life to you to be used for your purpose. I know that you will empower me by your Holy Spirit and provide strength for whatever task you place before me. I am available. Help me to keep my heart tuned to your voice so I will hear when you call. In Jesus’ Name I pray, amen.