Judges

God uses Gideon to lead His army and defeat the Midianites. First, Gideon learns to believe and trust God in order to receive the blessing. We learn to overcome obstacles in our life through the life of Gideon as we see how Gideon bestowed his life to God, opened his life so God could bless him, allowed God to break down old habits, then saw how God broadened Gideon's life. If we follow these things, God will broaden our lives, changing our families and the community around us.

Rick Clendenen brings a message to us who are 'Warriors in Warfare.' In order to get to the place where God is taking us, we have jump a few hurdles. The first mistake we make is judging God in comparison to our circumstances. We serve a BIG God who holds the universe in the palm of His hand. In Judges chapter 6, we learn about the call and the confirmation God gave to Gideon, revealing to us that God has placed a call on our lives as well.

From last night's message we know God has placed a call on our life. Now we need to prepare for warfare. Preparation is necessary for victory and is never a waste of time. Rick goes through the "Principles for Preparation" and then shows us the foundations of "Corporate Preparation" in Judges chapter 7.

2 Corinthians 10:4 says, "For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds." We need to separate who God is using to help us from who we're battling and avoid getting involved in things of the flesh. God moves in ways we cannot begin to conceive. Let God fight your battles - He never loses. God helps us to choose the right timing, the right people, the right position, the right pattern, when to pursue and when we should stand still. He sends the Holy Spirit to guide us and to be our covering. Read Ephesians 6:10-17 and put on the whole armor of God.

In the story of Samson, we see an image of what the church of Jesus Christ is supposed to be - in our generation. Samson was empowered by God to accomplish mighty exploits - so too is the church! However, we are clearly called to stay focused on Jesus and not get off the track as Samson did, which is the reason for powerlessness.