Homecoming -- Doing What it Takes

Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Read Judges 7
By John Smith

Back in 2006, I had my first opportunity to coach football for Brantley County High School. For the first time in the school’s 35-plus years of varsity football, we made the state playoffs. Of course, I jokingly tell everyone it was my coaching prowess that led us to the playoffs, but I know it required a lot of hard work by the entire team. As we traveled to Louisville, Georgia to face Jefferson County High School in the first round, you could sense the nervous excitement in the younger players. However, the upperclassmen knew what was required of them, and they had been preparing for this moment their entire high school careers.

Very similar to the Midianites, the Jefferson County team was viewed as the sure victor. The Lord had delivered the Israelites into the hands of the Midianites for seven years. As I walked the field during pre-game festivities, our opponent seemed without number (Judges 6 v. 5). They were also much bigger and faster than our players. However, the Jefferson County team lacked a few characteristics of a well prepared team.

Just like Gideon and the chosen 300 men, our young Brantley County team had come to understand the importance of preparation. There was a specific plan in place that we as coaches knew we had to implement in order for us to be successful against a much superior opponent (and WE won)!! I am sure Gideon was concerned when the Lord continually told him to reduce the number of Israelites who would fight the Midianites. However, the Lord had a specific plan for Gideon and the Israelites. Since the Lord was directing His people and His servant obeyed, the Spirit-led preparation produced a victory.

Applying the Truth as an Individual
How would you react if you were Gideon? How does the story of this event apply to you today?

Applying the Truth as a Church
How do many groups react when they are successful? Read Judges 7 verse 2 again.

How does our individual preparation and understanding of the Lord’s specific plan contribute to the success of the body of believers at Pleasant Valley?