Gideon Refuses Credit

Judges chapters 6-8 tell the story of Gideon, who, with an army of only 300 men, leads the Israelites to a military victory over the feared Mideonites. Of course, in ancient times victorious military leaders, especially those who overcame seemingly insurmountable odds, were praised with near god-like adoration. The Israelites evidently felt similarly toward Gideon, (Judges 8:22, ESV),

Then the men of Israel said to Gideon, “Rule over us, you and your son and your grandson also, for you have saved us from the hand of Midian.”

It would have been very tempting to accept such accolades! Yet, Gideon correctly recognized that the victory came not from his own cleverness; rather, it came from God's infinite power. Accordingly, Gideon responded (Judges 8:23, ESV),

I will not rule over you, and my son will not rule over you; the Lord will rule over you.

What an amazing example of humility! In our prayers, let us follow Gideon's example. Whatever comforts, luxuries, possessions, accomplishments, or enjoyments we might have, let us recognize those as coming from God, and praise him accordingly.