Some people say that they’ll never change. Bad habits are hard to break. Most of us have tried to change some areas of our lives, but we don’t get the results we’re hoping for by sheer determination. Like a yo- yo, up and down, we try to stop a bad habit, but it surfaces again. Have you ever tried to be a gentler, more patient person? A situation will arise that causes you to unleash some very impatient, unkind words. But when we give our lives to God, something spiritual happens. God doesn't change our personalities; He changes our hearts. By the power of the Spirit in us, we become bold and courageous for Christ. We are free to serve Him without any hindrances. God deposits love and grace into our hearts. When faced with insurmountable circumstances, we can draw on the strength of the Almighty One. In Judges, chapter 6, Israel did evil against the Lord and worshiped false gods. They were starving because the Midianites robbed all their crops. The people were under heavy oppression from their enemies and felt defeated, fearful, and hopeless. Then Israel cried out to God for help. The Lord always has a supernatural solution available. He chose Gideon to lead Israel in battle against their enemies. God told Gideon to get up and take action and assured him that He would be with him, Judges 6:16. But Gideon's response wasn't enthusiastic. He felt unqualified as the youngest one in the weakest tribe. God promised victory, but Gideon needed a change of heart. Upheld by God's strength and inspirational words, Gideon followed God's instructions and destroyed Israel’s pagan altars. They got upset! But God miraculously caused Israel's enemies to be defeated and protected Gideon. Like Gideon, we can conquer every obstacle that comes our way because God declares that He is with us. Philippians 4:19 says, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." We must refuse fear and trust God. Victory is ours. God is prepared to do the impossible when we have faith in Him and ask.
