DCLM Daily Manna Tuesday 16 July 2024
TOPIC: Fainting Yet Pursuing
TEXT: Judges 8:1-4 (KJV)
8 And the men of Ephraim said unto him, Why hast thou served us thus, that thou calledst us not, when thou wentest to fight with the Midianites? And they did chide with him sharply.
2 And he said unto them, What have I done now in comparison of you? Is not the gleaning of the grapes of Ephraim better than the vintage of Abiezer?
3 God hath delivered into your hands the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb: and what was I able to do in comparison of you? Then their anger was abated toward him, when he had said that.
4 And Gideon came to Jordan, and passed over, he, and the three hundred men that were with him, faint, yet pursuing them.
KEY VERSE
“And Gideon came to Jordan, and passed over, he, and the three hundred men that were with him, faint, yet pursuing them.”
Judges 8:4
DCLM Daily Manna Tuesday 16 July 2024 MESSAGE
One of the factors that is known to be responsible for most of the abandoned projects and dreams of people is the lack of sheer determination. The path to success is filled with numerous setbacks that are bound to stop the irresolute from reaching his goals. Only those who are willing to have themselves stretched out of limits achieve great feats.
Gideon and his band of tired and fainting 300 soldiers in our text clearly exemplify staying power. After fighting a long battle with the Midianites, they were physically exhausted, without sleep or food. Yet, they kept on pursuing the enemy. They did not stop until they made sure every enemy was defeated and total victory was won.
READ DCLM Daily Manna Monday 15 July 2024 – Look And Live
So many people quit the battle of life midway before the ultimate victory is won. The reasons for this are many. The scope of the work could be overwhelming. The nature of the opposition could be intimidating. Some may get discouraged because of lack of adequate manpower and resources needed to get the work done. For others, it could be as a result of numerous distractions and offers coming from the world. Others are satisfied with the little victories they have won. But quitting along the way will never guarantee total victory. Gideon teaches us the lesson on resilience, persistence and doggedness to accomplish set goals.
As common as the problem of fainting could be, there is cure. First, the Bible did not say the task will be easy (Matthew 10:16-18). Second, we should think of the implications of abandoning the work. The flock will be scattered, and our labour and investments be in vain. Lastly, we need to seek the help of the Lord constantly for renewal of strength (Isaiah 40:31).
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
No retreat, no quitting, no surrender!
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:
Genesis 48-50
