When we are first introduced to Gideon in the Bible, he is doing his farm work inside a winepress for fear of the Philistines. It is rather a cowardly act, yet the angel greets him with the title, “Mighty Man of Valor.” In the face of hardship and difficulties, Christians can often feel like grounding their wheat in a winepress like Gideon. We hide under pressure and hope just to “get by.” But studying Gideon’s story can help us realize that through the power of the Holy Spirit we too are transformed into mighty men and women of valor.
An Unlikely Hero
Gideon did not transform overnight. After God has given him his task of defeating the Philistines, he delays, complains and doubts. Yet God mercifully works through Gideon anyway. The Philistines are defeated not by a courageous leader or strength in numbers but through the power of God. It is a fascinating and exciting story that will capture the imaginations of students of all grades.
Resources for Gideon’s Story
Find the story of Gideon in this unit on Judges for third and fourth graders. Also, for those in upper elementary, dive into the story of Gideon’s army with a PBL unit on Judges. Additionally, these stories have also been put into a Google Slides unit, a fun and engaging way to learn how Gideon’s cowardice turns to bravery through God’s power.
If you are looking for these ready-to-use resources for your students, check them out in my store.
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