Gideon – just the mention of the name strikes an image of leadership and bravado in the minds of many, both Christian and non Christian alike. There are four chapters devoted to his legacy in the book of Judges, more ink than any other judge. His name has been compared with brave men throughout the ages; even the Angel of God states "The Lord is with you, O mighty man of valor." (Judges 6:12). And yet...the verses in the chapters that follow might suggest evidence to the contrary.

            Gideon's first response to God's call is one of fear and doubt. He has to be reassured by the Angel of God that he will not die after seeing God's Angel, despite the fact that the task requires him be alive. Even after the assurance of the Angel, Gideon continues in a state of doubt by asking God for more signs (wet and dry fleece) in order to assure himself that God is with him. At one point God even has to make a provision for his fear and doubt by telling him "But if you are afraid to go down, go down with Purah your servant." (Judges 7:10ff)

            After Gideon finally gets over all of his reservations about his calling, it is God, not Gideon, who takes the battle. Gideon and his army of only 300 achieve victory by doing nothing more than blowing trumpets and smashing jars, standing in place yelling "A sword for the Lord and for Gideon!" sending the enemy army in a panic retreat. And if all that is not enough, Gideon's vanity and lust for wealth kick in. After a vane gesture to show that he would not follow their plea to rule over them, (with evidence that Gideon had very little to do with the victory) Gideon exacts from them 1700 shekels worth of gold earrings, crescent ornaments and pendants to outfit his Ephod, and purple garments; all the things that were worn by kings of Median.

            So what was Gideon, a great leader or a questionable servant? Had you known about these events and personal characteristics of Gideon prior to the calling, would you have called upon him? We most likely would not have, but God did. As to the answer of the question, he was both. When God uses us to execute his plans for the redemption of man, He anticipates, but does not depend on our human nature. Like Gideon, we have the same reservations, the same faults, and the same vanity. This makes us all "questionable" servants. What was left out of this story is the characteristic found between the lines - Gideon's obedience and willingness to serve. Gideon was not great because of his faith – he lacked it; he was not great because he was brave – he wasn't; and he was not great because of his humility and integrity – they were absent. Gideon will always be remembered as a great leader and a man of valor because God knew that through his obedience, His purpose would be served.

            God doesn't call us for any of our perceived skills. He calls us at the appropriate time to give us an opportunity to serve Him willingly and obediently, and to be a part of His ultimate plan. So the next time God decides to "raise a Gideon"...be ready, you are more than qualified.