Day 4: Testing the Waters

Scripture:
Judges 6:36-40
"Then Gideon said to God, 'If You will deliver Israel through me, as You have spoken, behold, I will put a fleece of wool on the threshing floor. If there is dew on the fleece only, and it is dry on all the ground, then I will know that You will deliver Israel through me, as You have spoken.'"

Cowboy Wisdom:
Any good cowboy knows to test the water before crossing a stream. You don't just charge in hoping for the best—you check the depth, test the current, and make sure your horse can handle what's ahead. There's nothing wrong with being cautious when the stakes are high.

Gideon wasn't being faithless when he asked for confirmation—he was being human. God had just asked him to take on an entire army with impossible odds. A little confirmation seems reasonable, don't you think? And notice something important: God didn't get angry with Gideon for asking. He patiently provided the signs Gideon needed.

Sometimes we're told that asking God for confirmation shows a lack of faith. But the Bible shows us something different. God understands our need for reassurance, especially when He's calling us to something that seems impossible. He's patient with our questions and gentle with our fears. The key is making sure we're seeking confirmation to move forward, not excuses to stay put.

Questions for Reflection:

1. When have you asked God for a "fleece" or sign about something He was calling you to do?
2. What's the difference between seeking confirmation and making excuses? How can you tell which one you're doing?
3. How has God shown patience with your need for reassurance in the past?

Prayer Focus:
​God, thank You for being patient with my questions and gentle with my fears. When You call me to something that seems beyond my abilities, help me seek confirmation that leads to action, not excuses that lead to paralysis. Give me the wisdom to know Your voice and the courage to follow it. Amen.