' Gideon's three hundred' 

Judges 6.11-18 

"Fire flared from the rock, consuming the meat and the bread. And the angel of the LORD disappeared." How much proof do you need before you do what God wants you to do? Gideon's story is priceless as an example of a cautious coward who was compelled by God to do great and 'heroic' things.

We wait, we want to make certain we aren't making a mistake. We put it off, we aren't sure we are hearing from God. We decide against doing anything because we might do the wrong thing...

I grew up with that kind of indecision from my dad on so many issues and opportunities.

Fear is a terrible thing, and it keeps us from acting in faith and love. 

It isn't 'failure' we ought to be concerned about...it's inactivity. 'Failure' is merely the experience of learning what would NOT work. It is part of the process of success. 

Fear is what will keep us from experiencing peace. Fear will keep us from victory. Fear will drive away any chance of joy.

You may not be able to see the angel of the Lord right now, but He's there. We don't need nearly as many resources as our fears drive us to believe...we need faith and an attentive angel.

God will supply the angel - get up and get out there!