This week has been a week of firsts for me. I was invited to a creative forum as a rapporteur and then by a former lecturer to assist him in one of his classes. Though I have trained before at the university level, this was a learning curve for me as the invitation was to lend capacity in a Master’s leadership class.

Day one of introduction was interesting, as the lecturer gave a brief background of my work. I was intimidated to say the least, being in the presence of great leaders from different sectors of society who were much older than I, and had many years of experience to back them up. Self-doubt crept in as I wondered what I had to offer this class.

I was in good company though, with many bible greats who doubted themselves after receiving opportunities to do certain tasks. This experience got me reflecting on the biblical story of Gideon. When he is introduced, we find him threshing wheat in a winepress. The Israelites at this point have endured such severe oppression at the hands of the Midianites, Amalekites and other eastern people because of their disobedience {Judges 6}.Gideon was trying to hide his produce from the Midianites when the angel of the Lord appeared to him. The greeting that the angel chose to use was highly unusual, as Gideon did not embody a mighty warrior. In fact, the dialogue that followed showed the exact state of Gideon’s heart: he was afraid, discouraged and disillusioned.

Isn’t that how God deals with us? He calls us out with the intention of using us greatly even when we do not look the part. He calls us mighty warriors when we are in hiding and imparts in us His great power to do exploits. Maybe like Gideon, God is inviting you to do something that is outside your comfort zone and you are contemplating declining the offer. Maybe the Lord has been speaking to you to step out, but self-doubt has caused you to hold back and cower in fear. I believe that God is saying to you: “The Lord is with you mighty warrior.”

I have come to appreciate every opportunity that God brings my way. I have found that these opportunities may seem like steep learning curves that cause you to look to God rather than your own abilities. In saying yes to God, the growth that follows is like a domino effect, opening greater doors in places you had never envisioned.

In this season, God is calling His warriors who are discouraged and afraid, to stand up and be all that He has called them to be. For some, they have been saying, “I have missed it”, for others “I am just not good enough” and for some, “I do not have the expertise.” Whatever the reason for holding back, hear these words loud and clear:

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go”{Joshua 1:9}

Be assured that if God is calling you, He has already deposited in you a set of skills, gifts, and abilities that will see His work in, and through you accomplished.

“The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” {1st Samuel 16:7b}

Today is the day of your visitation, today is the day for you to be strong, today is your day- mighty warrior, rise up, for the Lord is with you!