Article April 2, 1927 Issue

Gideon the Warrior

INEZ M. RISLEY

To the Christian Scientist, the Bible is a source of ever increasing revelation and inspiration. Its pages abound in practical, healing truths, which he sees and understands. Many helpful lessons are thus gleaned; as for instance in the story of Gideon as found in the sixth and seventh chapters of Judges. There it is related that because of disobedience, the children of Israel were delivered into the hand of their enemies, the Midianites. So mesmerized by fear were these Israelites, that they were in physical distress, even in want and poverty. In this hour of great need they turned to God for help, and, as always, God directed their way. Through Gideon, they were led triumphantly out of harassing difficulties into peace and harmony.

At first, Gideon's thought expressed something of self-pity, fear, condemnation, and distrust of the power and presence of God. Then the voice of Truth bade him, "Go in this thy might, and thou shalt save Israel from the hand of the Midianites: have not I sent thee?" Even then error tried to cloud his vision, by thrusting in the suggestion of poverty and lack of confidence.

Before this hour of development came to him, Gideon had manifested alert activity and faithfulness, as he threshed wheat to supply the need of the children of Israel for material food. This willingness to perform the necessary tasks for the comfort and happiness of others is an important preparation for higher work. Was not Jesus, the Way-shower, a good carpenter before he became the master Metaphysician? It is said of Mrs. Eddy, the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, that she could and did, when the occasion arose, perform the tasks essential to the comfort and harmony of a home. So, to-day, willingness to give of one's service in a human way, to be active and alert in doing for others, is a necessary step to higher duties. Is it not the faithful mother or the active business-man who oftenest hears and obeys the call to greater activity and helpfulness?

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