Scripture Text: Judges 8:4-17
So he said to the men of Succoth, “Please give loaves of bread to the people who follow me, for they are exhausted, and I am pursuing after Zebah and Zalmunna, the kings of Midian.” And the officials of Succoth said, “Are the hands of Zebah and Zalmunna already in your hand, that we should give bread to your army?” And from there he went up to Penuel, and spoke to them in the same way, and the men of Penuel answered him as the men of Succoth had answered.
Judges 8:5-6, 8
After Gideon fixed the issue between him and Ephraim's men (vv1-3), he and his 300 Israelite army came to Jordan River and went across the other side to pursue the kings of Midian, Zebah and Zalmunna. However, the 300 were tired and hungry, until they reached the city of Succoth. Gideon asked loaves of bread from the men of that place intended for the 300 Israelites army because they were so exhausted. But the men of Succoth rejected his request. After leaving Succoth, Gideon went to Penuel and asked the leaders there for some food. But they rejected also his request.
Gideon told the men/leaders of Succoth and Penuel that he will come back for them to be punished, because of the ungodly actions they did for God's army. He assured them that God will help him to capture the two kings and totally defeat Midian. So, the two cities, Succoth and Penuel, suffered the terrible consequences because of what they did to the army of God.
The reason why God anointed Gideon as judge of Israel was to deliver and save the Israelites from the Midianites. However, the people of Succoth and Penuel did not support the army of God who fought for the sake of entire Israel's lives and peace. They demanded Gideon to capture first the two kings of Midian before they give them food to eat.
The above passages reminded us that as God's people, as believers-followers of our Lord Jesus Christ, we should not neglect to help and support the servants and workers of God through His church. Why? Because it is our obligation as church members to support them without any condition. This support includes, but is not limited to, material gifts, financial and other essentials so that the ministry in the church would not be hindered nor delayed. See that all the needs of the church are addressed.
Therefore, we must pray to God to fulfill His goal in our church. As brethren in the faith, we must take care of each other. We must help each other, support each other, and love each other.
Reflect
Do you want to glorify our Lord Jesus Christ? Bless His church, bless all the servants and workers of the church without any condition and hesitation.
Remember
We are blessed because we trust in the Lord, that's why the more we extend blessings to the church, to the brethren and to others, the more that the Lord blesses us.
Read
Proverbs 10:6, 28:20; Jeremiah 17:7-8; 3 John 1:8
Pray
Dear Heavenly Father,
With open hearts, we are recognizing the importance of supporting and sustaining those who serve You faithfully, just as Gideon's warriors did.
May we be instruments of your provision, extending our hands to uplift and care for those who dedicate their lives to your service. Grant us the wisdom to recognize their needs and the generosity to meet them, knowing that as we support them, we are furthering Your kingdom.
In moments of doubt, remind us of the example set by Gideon's 300, who faced challenges with unwavering faith and unity. May our support strengthen their resolve and encourage them to continue their mission.
Lord, as we come together in unity, may our efforts reflect your love and grace. May our support serve as a testament to the fellowship of believers and the power of a community working together for a greater purpose.
Thank you for the privilege of being a part of Your work in the lives of those who serve. May our actions echo the selflessness and dedication of Gideon's companions, demonstrating our commitment to nurturing and sustaining those who follow Your call.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
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