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Prove Your Faith Through Action

Writer's picture: afmincanada (Bible Study)afmincanada (Bible Study)

Theme Scripture: Judges 8:12-21 and 7:25

 

Introduction


Gideon, though a humble farmer, rose to become Israel's deliverer. For seven years, the Midianites had oppressed the Israelites, who had no defense against the relentless raids. The situation was so dire that the Israelites took refuge in caves (refer to Judges 6:2). In their distress, they called out to the Lord, who responded by appointing Gideon as their deliverer. He demolished Baal's altar and reinstated the worship of God (see Judges chapters 6 to 8:32).


Following the significant triumph over the Midianites, the Israelites proposed to crown Gideon as king, which he declined. Gideon was not without flaws; the records reveal some of his missteps. However, his faith in Jehovah was commendable and honored by God, earning him a mention in the Hall of Faith (Hebrews 11:32).


How does God call men and women today? The angel of Jehovah generally comes when a person is busy (see Judges 6:11-12), and history is full of examples:

 

• Deborah, an Ephraimite, was a housewife (Judges 4:4-5:31).

• Saul was searching for his father's donkeys when he was called (1 Samuel 9).

• David, a shepherd boy, tended to his sheep.

• The disciples were engaged in fishing.

• Martin Luther, a leader of the Reformation, served as a pastor and professor.

• George Washington, the first U.S. president, worked as a farmer and surveyor.

• Abraham Lincoln, the sixteenth U.S. president, practiced law in the countryside.

• Dwight L. Moody, known as an evangelist and visionary, sold shoes.


Those who are busy for the Lord are those who move the world upward!


Even though Gideon was successful in maintaining order and the country enjoyed peace for 40 years, shortly after his death, the people quickly turned to idolatry by worshipping the Baals: "As soon as Gideon was dead... the children of Israel turned again, and went a whoring after Baalim" (Judges 8:33). It is common for a hero's personal influence to be significant during their lifetime, only for confusion to arise after their passing. Discord erupted immediately after Gideon's funeral, as there was no rightful successor. Despite Gideon leaving behind many sons, none were able to fill his shoes. Abimelech, one of Gideon's sons, who was unprincipled and ruthless, gained support from the men in Shechem and seized the throne. He ruled with tyranny for three years. A woman killed him.


The theme scripture mentioned above tells the story of Gideon's army chasing down and conquering the two princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb (Judges 7:25), as well as the two kings of Midian, Zebah and Zalmunna (Judges 8:12-21). Gideon’s victory over these kings marks a pivotal moment, showing that faith in God must be combined with courage and action to achieve victory.


Moments to Step Up


There are moments in life when God calls us to rise above our circumstances and take action. There are moments in life that we need to definitely step up. These moments are not just tests; they are opportunities to prove our faith through deeds. In the story of Gideon, we see an ordinary man step up when his nation was in peril, becoming a vessel for God’s deliverance. Gideon’s faith was not passive, it was active. Faith that honors God is not confined to belief; it is demonstrated through action.


Defining Your Legacy


Gideon’s story begins with his humble background. He was not a warrior by training but a farmer, and like the Israelites, he was living in fear under the oppression of the Midianites (Judges 6:11). The Israelites had been hiding in caves, their faith shattered. But God had a different plan. In Judges 6:12, the angel of the Lord addresses Gideon, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.” This is significant because the Hebrew term used here for "warrior" is gibbor (גִּבּוֹר), meaning "mighty man of valor." It shows that God often sees more in us than we see in ourselves. Gideon didn’t see himself as a warrior, but God did. You might note see yourself as a warrior but God does.


Think of a diamond in the rough. A diamond starts as a piece of coal, hidden in darkness. But under pressure and refinement, it becomes a beautiful and valuable gemstone. Likewise, Gideon’s faith was initially hidden, but under the pressure of circumstances, it was refined and his true strength emerged. We need to define our legacy.

 

God calls us to step out in faith. Gideon was called not only to believe but to act on that belief. After tearing down the altar of Baal (Judges 6:28), Gideon began his journey of deliverance. His faith was demonstrated through action, not words alone. Faith that takes action proves who you really are. As a child of God you need to take action.


James 2:17 reminds us, “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” The Greek word here for "dead" is nekros (νεκρός), meaning lifeless or inactive. Faith must be living, active, and proven through deeds. If a seed is planted in the ground, without water and sunlight, it will never grow. Faith is like that seed, it needs the nourishment of the word of God accompanied by action to grow into something fruitful. Gideon’s actions were the “water” that allowed his faith to bear fruit in the form of victory over the Midianites.

 

An Opportunity to Prove Love


In Judges 8:4-9, we see Gideon’s army seeking help from their fellow Israelites in Succoth and Peniel. However, they were denied hospitality. This was a violation of both cultural and spiritual laws. Hospitality was deeply embedded in the culture of the East, and it was also an important ministry in the early church (Romans 12:13). The Hebrew word for hospitality is hachnasat orchim (הכנסת אורחים), which literally means "bringing in guests." In the Bible, hospitality is not just about feeding people; it’s about demonstrating love and care for others, as seen in Matthew 25:35 where Jesus says, “For I was hungry, and you gave me food.” It is sad that the fellow Israelites in Succoth lost an opportunity to prove love and show hospitality to Gideon and his army during the most critical time of need when they were chasing Zebah and Zalmunna.


In the early church, hospitality wasn’t just an option; it was a necessity. There were no hotels, and Christians often needed places to stay, especially during times of persecution. Succoth and Peniel missed an opportunity to show love and support their brothers, much like how we sometimes fail to show love to those in need around us.

 

Victory Through Perseverance


Gideon’s victory was not just about military strategy; it was about faith in God’s provision and perseverance. In Judges 8:10-12, we see how God gives Gideon victory over Zebah and Zalmunna, not through overwhelming numbers but through faith. With only 300 men, Gideon routed an entire army. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, Paul writes, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” The Greek word for “power” here is dynamis (δύναμις), from which we get the word “dynamite.” God’s power explodes in our weaknesses, as it did with Gideon’s small army. Halleluyah!!!


Imagine how a small spark lights up a huge fire. It doesn’t take much to ignite a flame that can consume an entire forest. Likewise, Gideon’s small army was the spark that God used to bring about a mighty victory. Sometimes, it’s not about the size of the army but the size of the faith. You also can be used by God just as you are. Don’t look down upon yourself God wants to use you. He knows you by name.


Matters to Settle


After Gideon captured Zebah and Zalmunna, there was something personal that needed to be addressed. In Judges 8:18-21, Gideon asked the kings, “What kind of men did you kill at Tabor?” They answered, “Men like you, each one with the bearing of a prince.” The kings had killed Gideon’s brothers, and Gideon had a matter to settle.


In ancient Israel, it was the family’s duty to avenge the death of a loved one (Numbers 35:19). Gideon was not just fighting for national justice but for personal closure. In our lives, there are moments when we must address unresolved issues, times when confronting past wounds, injustices, or transgressions is necessary, as these are the tools that the adversary, known as Satan or the devil, has employed to ensnare us.

 

Like Gideon, many of us have matters to settle. The devil may have stolen from you, oppressed you, or destroyed aspects of your life. But just as Gideon did not allow Zebah and Zalmunna to escape judgment, we should not allow the devil to continue wreaking havoc in our lives and families. We must rise up in the authority that Christ has given us. In Luke 10:19, Jesus says, “I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” The Greek word for "authority" here is exousia (ἐξουσία), meaning the legal right and power to act. God has given you the authority to settle matters with the enemy, whether it’s overcoming sin, breaking strongholds, or claiming victory over situations where the devil has gained ground.


Imagine a debtor who constantly comes back to demand payment long after the debt has been forgiven. The devil often acts in this way, trying to remind us of past failures, hurts, sins, or wounds. But just as Gideon took decisive action against those who had wronged him, we must take spiritual authority and not allow the enemy to continually harass us with guilt, shame, or oppression. Romans 8:37 tells us that "we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." Embrace your victory now.

 

Youth in the Spiritual Battle

 

In Judges 8 verse 20, we read that Gideon asked his young son, Jether, to execute the Midianite kings, Zebah and Zalmunna, as a way to avenge the deaths of his uncles. This was a moment where Jether could step into a significant role, proving himself in a great responsibility. However, Jether hesitated. The text tells us, “But Jether did not draw his sword, because he was only a boy and was afraid” (Judges 8:20).

 

Jether’s hesitation is reflective of a larger issue that we see today, especially among young people in the church. Many young Christians are hesitant to fully step into their God-given calling, whether it be through leading, praying, evangelizing, standing up for what is right, or fighting the spiritual battles that they face. Just like Jether, fear, uncertainty, and a sense of unpreparedness hold many back from taking action.

 

Why Do Youth Hesitate Today?


  1. Fear of Responsibility: Many young people, like Jether, feel the weight of responsibility and think, “I’m not ready for this.” They feel overwhelmed by the idea of standing up for their faith or leading in spiritual matters. Jether was afraid because he saw the task as too great for him. Today’s youth may feel similarly when they are asked to take bold steps in their spiritual walk.


  2. Lack of Confidence: There is often a sense of inadequacy among youth, the feeling that they are not “strong enough” or “wise enough” to handle spiritual matters. Jether likely felt unqualified to take the lives of kings, just as many young people feel unqualified to confront the enemy or take leadership roles in the church.


  3. Fear of Failure:

    Jether knew that executing the kings was not a task for the faint-hearted. The fear of making mistakes or not living up to expectations can paralyze young believers today. They may ask themselves, “What if I fail? What if I can’t do it right?”

 

Youth, Don’t Let Fear Hold You Back


The story of Jether teaches us an important lesson: fear and hesitation can cause us to miss out on opportunities to fulfill God’s purpose for our lives. But the Bible is clear, God has called young people to be bold and courageous, especially in spiritual matters. God’s Word is filled with examples of young people who stepped out in faith and made a difference in their generation. In 1 Samuel 17:33-37, David, a young shepherd boy, stood up to face Goliath when no one else dared. King Saul doubted David, saying, “You are only a boy, and he has been a warrior from his youth.” But David replied, “The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” David’s boldness wasn’t based on his own strength but on his confidence in God’s power.


When God called Jeremiah, he also hesitated, saying, “I do not know how to speak; I am only a youth” (Jeremiah 1:6). But God responded, “Do not say, ‘I am only a youth’; for you shall go to all to whom I send you, and whatever I command you, you shall speak” (Jeremiah 1:7). God reminded Jeremiah that his age was not a limitation, and that He would be with him to deliver His message.


Paul’s encouragement to young Timothy is a powerful reminder for all young believers: “Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12). The Greek word for "despise" here is kataphroneo (καταφρονέω), meaning "to look down on." Paul encourages Timothy not to allow others to look down on him because of his age, but instead to lead by example, proving his faith through action.

 

It’s Time to Take Action. God Has Not Given You a Spirit of Fear. In 2 Timothy 1:7, Paul writes, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” The Greek word for “fear” here is deilia (δειλία), meaning timidity or cowardice. God’s calling for young people is not to hesitate in fear but to walk in the power of the Holy Spirit. You are equipped with everything you need to face the challenges before you.

 

You Are Strong in the Lord. 1 John 2:14 encourages young believers, saying, “I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.” This scripture shows that youth have a unique strength that comes from God. The phrase “you are strong” comes from the Greek word ischyros (ἰσχυρός), meaning mighty or powerful. Youth are not to be passive but to actively engage in spiritual warfare, overcoming the enemy with the Word of God.

 

Be Bold Like Joshua. Just as God encouraged Joshua when he was young, He says to you today: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). This command to be courageous was given to Joshua as he was about to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. Like Joshua, you have a God-given destiny, and you must step into it with courage and boldness.

 

Youth, It’s Time to Draw Your Sword. Halleluyah! Jether hesitated when he had the opportunity to draw his sword and deal with Zebah and Zalmunna. Don’t make the same mistake. Today, young people are called to “draw their swords” to take a stand for God, to fight against sin, and to push back against the work of the enemy in their lives and communities. In Ephesians 6:17, Paul describes the sword of the Spirit as the Word of God. The Greek word for sword is machaira (μάχαιρα), which was a short, sharp sword used in close combat. The Word of God is our weapon, and youth are called to use it to fight spiritual battles. It’s time to engage in the fight with confidence, using the Word as your weapon.

 

Don’t Wait, Act Now. Just like David, Jeremiah, and Timothy, God is calling you to step into your purpose now. Don’t allow fear, uncertainty, or feelings of inadequacy to hold you back. The enemy would love for you to remain hesitant, but God has given you authority to trample on the works of darkness (Luke 10:19). Remember, Romans 8:37 says, “We are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” It’s time to act like conquerors!

 

Rise and Take Your Place. Take Action. Don’t let fear, hesitation, or doubt hold you back from fulfilling your calling in God. Like Jether, you may feel unprepared, but know that God equips those He calls. Step into the responsibility and honor that God has given you. Draw your sword, take action, and prove your faith through your deeds. Philippians 4:13 reminds us, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” The Greek word for "strengthens" is endynamoo (ἐνδυναμόω), meaning to empower or enable. Through Christ, you have the strength to face any challenge and fulfill your calling. So rise up, young people, and take your place in the spiritual battle.

 

Knowing When to Act


Gideon’s actions toward Succoth and Peniel were not the same as his actions toward the Ephraimites. He showed discernment in dealing with different offenses. Succoth and Peniel had rebelled against God’s chosen leader, and their actions were not mere insults but treason. Good leadership skills and discernment are critical. The word for discernment in Greek is diakrisis (διάκρισις), which means “judgment” or “separation.” Leaders must be able to separate the difference between personal offense and rebellion against God’s authority.


Just as a skilled surgeon knows how to carefully cut away diseased tissue without harming healthy flesh, a leader must know when and how to deal with sin and rebellion in the community. Gideon knew that the rebellion of Succoth and Peniel could not go unpunished, for it was a threat to the nation’s spiritual health.

 

Conclusion


Let us consider the importance of defining our legacy by taking action. Just as Gideon’s legacy was defined by his faith and action, so too is ours. What will be said of us when our time here is done? Will we be remembered as those who hesitated, like Jether, or as those who took bold action, like David and Gideon?

 

Legacy is not something we create with words alone, it is built through the actions we take and the battles we choose to fight. Gideon’s legacy was not just about winning military victories, but about standing up for what was right, obeying God’s call, and taking action when it mattered most. He overcame his fears, doubts, and limitations and stepped into God’s plan. Proverbs 13:22 says, “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children.” This inheritance is not just financial but spiritual. The Hebrew word for “inheritance” here is nachalah (נַחֲלָה), meaning something passed down, not just in material form but in values, faith, and example.

 

What spiritual inheritance are we leaving for those who come after us? Are we passing down courage, faith, and obedience, or are we leaving behind fear, hesitation, and regret? Youth, your legacy begins now. You don’t have to wait until you are older to make a difference in the Kingdom of God. Like Timothy, like David, like Jeremiah, your actions today will shape the spiritual inheritance you leave behind. Remember, “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12). The world is watching, and more importantly, God is calling you to take action. Legacy is defined by how we respond to God’s call in moments of challenge. We can choose to hesitate, like Jether, or we can take bold action, like Gideon. The choice is ours.

Let’s not allow the enemy to continue reigning, nor allow fear to hold us back from settling the matters in our lives. Whether it's standing up against sin, leading in our communities, or advancing the Kingdom of God, let’s define our legacy through bold, faith-filled action. We have been given the authority in Christ to overcome the works of the enemy (Luke 10:19) and to leave behind a legacy of faith that will inspire future generations.


As we close, let’s reflect on the challenges we face today. Just as Gideon had personal matters to settle, so do we. We have personal spiritual and social matters to settle against the enemy satan. The devil may have gained ground in areas of your life, but today is the day to settle those matters once and for all. Settle your matters, don’t let the enemy continue to punish and scold you. The victory has already been won in Christ.


In Revelation 12:11, it says, “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” We triumph not by our own strength but by the power of Christ’s sacrifice and the testimony of God’s work in our lives. This week, take a stand. Whether it’s dealing with a personal sin, overcoming a spiritual battle, or confronting an area where the enemy has oppressed you, prove your faith through action. Like Gideon, settle the matters that need to be settled, and claim the victory that is yours in Christ.

 

By walking in faith and action, we not only prove our trust in God but we also position ourselves to witness His power and deliverance in our lives. Let’s go out and live our faith actively!


Like Gideon, we may feel inadequate or unworthy, but God doesn’t call the equipped, He equips the called. In the face of trials, will you rise to the challenge? Will you prove your faith through action? James 2:18 says, “Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.” Our faith is not just in what we believe but in how we live. In moments of trial, let’s rise to the occasion, take action, and trust God to provide the victory. Rise to the Challenge, Prove Your Faith. This week, find ways to actively demonstrate your faith. Whether through acts of love, standing up for what is right, or stepping into a leadership role, prove your faith through action. God is calling you—will you answer?



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God bless you so much. May the peace of God dwell within you throughout this week. If you've been touched by today's message and wish to explore deeper faith, join us for Sunday services at AFM in Canada. Our address and location is on our website. Together, we can grow in love, strengthen our community, and uplift each other in our spiritual journeys. We look forward to welcoming you into our family. Blessings and grace be upon you.

 

Senior Pastor

Leo T Mukumba

 

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AFM stands for "Apostolic Faith Mission" The AFM exists since 1908 and is the first and largest Pentecostal church and currently established in 34 countries of the world. AFM totally and completely believe that the Bible is the inspired Word of God equally in all parts and without error in its original manuscript, absolutely infallible, and our source of supreme revelation from God, superior to conscience and reason, though not contrary to reason; and it is therefore our infallible rule of faith and practice. (II Timothy 3:16-17; I Peter 1:23-25; Hebrews 4:12) The programs and activities governing the form of worship of Apostolic Faith Mission in Canada – Hamilton Assembly are based upon and at all times consistent with bible.

Theme Scripture

Genesis 1: 26 ~ Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals,[a] and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”

 

Luke 6:38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.

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