bits from bob....

Broken Things

by Robert J. Young
©, 2001, Robert J. Young
[permission is given to reprint with credit noted]

"So Gideon, and the men who were with him blew the trumpets and broke the pitchers." (Judges 7:19)

The story of Gideon and his 300 men illustrates God's ability to give His people victory over the enemy. The Lord's army was equipped with earthen vessels, but inside them were burning torches. What a picture this gives us of the Christian! In fact, Paul describes the child of God as an earthen vessel to be filled with the Holy Spirit and God's Word. Truly the treasure has been put in earthen vessels as God's Word has been entrusted to Christians.

Because of this, we have before us all the possibilities and potential of unlimited power. Yet many of God's people go through life without letting that power flow out. For many, God's Word is not as a burning fire within them so that they must speak.

Notice the parallel. In Gideon's day, the torches were there, but no victory came until the pitchers were broken. Then the light shone forth and the enemy fled. Christians must likewise be broken in order to be at their best for God. Though we complain about adversity, the Bible makes it clear that tested individuals are the kind God uses most frequently. Paul said, "Wherefore I take pleasure in weaknesses, in injuries, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake: For when I am weak, then am I strong" (2 Cor. 12:10). Our real faith is shown and patience is built when we endure (Jas. 1:2-4).

The challenge is before you. Will you accept it? Are you willing to be broken so that the Light of the World might shine forth through you? If you will thus deny self, the enemy will flee, God will draw nigh, and the victory will be ours.


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Last updated November 28, 2001.