◄ A True Witness ►

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the exceeding greatness of the power ( … the excellence of the power) may be of God and not of ourselves”.
2 Corinthians 4: 7

I will not give My glory to another.”
Isaiah 48:11

Gideon’s Army

What a great army assembled against the Midianites – 32,000 fighting men. The mighty army of Gideon was indeed an impressive statement of Israel’s power. But the Lord is jealous of His name – and will not give His glory to another. And lest Israel cry, ‘My own hand has saved me‘, the fearful were sent away. “Remove those whose faith is lacking,” Gideon was told, and many walked away. So the numbers were cut right down – 10,000 fighting men.

Tested Warriors

But the Lord also delights in obedience – watchfulness – faithfulness – vigilance, and He tested His warriors, removing all who did not keep watch for the enemy. And so the numbers were slashed to a mere 300 fighting men. Trust in the Lord with ALL your heart and lean not to your own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5,  Lest they falsely boast themselves, the mighty army was axed to 300 watchful servants.

True Witness

God is not mocked. He uses only those that keep their eye on the goal of their calling. The true witness of God is one that faithfully trusts Him in all circumstances, The faithful servant - the steadfast soldier is the one that keeps watching. So trust in the Lord with all your heart, that you enter not into unbelief. Be vigilant and watch – the enemy as a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. Fix your eyes upon Jesus – for He is the Author and Finisher of your faith.

Earthen Vessels

And how this little army of men reflects those called today, to be a true witness. The little army of Gideon carried their earthen vessels, and a glorious light was hidden deep within those earthen vessels. But we have this treasure (this light) in earthen vessels… that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of ourselves. 2Cor.4:7 lest any man should boast… Eph.2:9

Hidden Treasure

Israel’s light was hidden deep within their pots. And we also carry His light, deep within our bodies, do you not know that your body is the temple of God -the temple of the Holy Spirit? 1Cor.6:19  Israel’s earthen vessels had within them a hidden treasure – the light of triumph, and God routed the enemy through His treasured light, hid deep within.

Fires of Trial

If we desire to be a true witness, it can only be achieved in one way – His Way. Lack of faith in His power or trust in His provision will cause us to walk away. Lack of obedience or an absence of vigilance will dismiss us from His service. There is no royal road for a witness. There is no easy path in His service. A true witness is born out of suffering and pain and anguish of heart. Faith must be severely tested and obedience is developed in the fires of trial.

Indwelling Spirit

The Light of Life is hid within each believer and He is that treasure in earthen vessels. The indwelling Spirit of Christ is that treasured Light, within each believer’s heart. But the container must be crushed like the earthen vessels of Gideon’s little remnant if the true light of Christ is to successfully minister through us.

Broken Vessel

The earthen vessel has to be broken, like Mary’s alabaster box of costly perfume, if the sweet aroma of the Lord is to be an effective witness through us.