Everyone Who Laps
Sunday, November 30
Judges 7:5-7 (NKJV)
“So he brought the people down to the water. And the LORD said to Gideon, “Everyone who laps from the water with his tongue, as a dog laps, you shall set apart by himself; likewise everyone who gets down on his knees to drink.” And the number of those who lapped, putting their hand to their mouth, was three hundred men; but all the rest of the people got down on their knees to drink water. Then the LORD said to Gideon, “By the three hundred men who lapped I will save you, and deliver the Midianites into your hand. Let all the other people go, every man to his place.”
Devoción
In this story, God told Gideon there were too many men—He didn’t want them taking credit for defeating the Midianites. God will not share His glory; He wants them to depend on Him. Zechariah 4:6 says, “Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit,” says the Lord Almighty. God is all-powerful, but He desires our willing participation in building His kingdom.
It doesn’t matter how much we have—only that we are willing to serve out of love for Him. God reduced Gideon’s army first by sending home the fearful, then with the water test. He separated those who lapped like a dog from those who knelt to drink. He chose the 300 who lapped, showing urgency and a desire to get the job done.
A dog drinks hurriedly, a horse takes its time. Likewise, God seeks people ready at a moment’s notice—bold, courageous, and prayerful even in battle. Not those who only pray in emergencies, but warriors who have put on their spiritual armor. Be like the lappers: drink enough to sustain yourself, then move quickly. Every second counts. As Pastor Franklin said, the time is short; follow God’s leading and go share what He has done.
Oración de hoy
Querido Padre Celestial,
Again, I am reminded that You do not need me, but You give me yet another opportunity to be used for Your kingdom in spite of my many failures. Help me become a vessel of honor in service of my Master and King. Show me the things in my life that bring dirt and dishonor and keep me from being more powerful in service as the time grows short. Help me not just to be about my Father’s business, but to be holy, skillful, effective, and joyful in it. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Aplíquelo hoy mismo
Why must we fight spiritual battles? Because the enemy of our souls is also active. What are we fighting for? Pastor Franklin opened last week’s sermon with Proverbs 11:30: “He that winneth souls is wise.” We prepare, armor up with God’s word and prayer, and embrace with eagerness the calling and opportunities for evangelism given to each of us. Set your will toward saying, “Yes, Lord Jesus,” and let Him steer the moving ship.
Recursos
“Lapping” vs. “Kneeling”
- Lappers: Symbolize initiative, readiness, boldness in action.
- Kneelers: Represent good intentions but slower response, possibly hesitation.
- God values not only commitment but also the speed and willingness to act when He calls.
- Don’t miss Week 2 of our Vision Series happening this morning at 9 AM and 11 AM (ET)! Join us live on Facebook, YouTube, or the Free Chapel App for an inspiring time in God’s Word, and a celebration of our partnership in Ministry!