Gold from Straw

This morning I grabbed a quick bite of Scripture as I rushed out the door.  Judges 6:13 - 17 on the fly and not expecting much, I admit.  There's Gideon saying to God, "If You're for us, then why do we have so much trouble? Where are Your miracles we grew up hearing about? Looks to me like You've abandoned us."

Hmmmm... Honest.  Direct.  And, umm.. relate-able at times.  God doesn't even bother to respond to any of Gideon's speech for some reason.  Just gets straight to the assignment. "Go with the strength (or resources) you have and save Israel from the Midianites.  I'm sending you out."

Gideon asks what he's supposed to save Israel with since he's weak and insignificant.  God says,"I'll be with you. " And He tells Gideon he will destroy the Midianites, who were powerful and myriad, as if they are really just like one of him.

I often wish God would explain Himself to me.  He usually doesn't.  But He gives me assignments for the day.  And helps me in spite of huge odds.  Today my assignment was finishing a giant painting for church.  A peaceful rowboat pointed out toward sea.  I was more aware than ever of my lack of art training and struggles with the basics of perspective. It felt like God was asking me to spin gold out of straw.  I'm literally painting on my knees, asking God for what to do next. And somehow the picture became a living, breathing thing.