Leaving A Legacy

(www.mensgroup.org – “Original Study”)

Overview:

This 16-part Bible study series, “Leaving a Legacy,” is designed to inspire and equip individuals to live intentionally and make a lasting impact on the world around them. Each session focuses on biblical principles that encourage participants to embrace their God-given purpose, make wise decisions, and actively serve others. Through the exploration of key themes such as faith, courage, and the importance of community, this series will challenge you to rise above life’s challenges and become a blessing to those around you. By understanding your purpose and taking action, you can create a meaningful legacy that resonates for generations to come.

Message from Marsh: “May your personal walk with the Lord lead you to be transformed, renewed, and blessed.”

Marsh

Founder/President

Thank you for coming to: mensgroup.org

Part VI: Gideon - From Fearful to Faithful

Description

This Bible study explores the life of Gideon, focusing on how God transforms an insecure and fearful man into a mighty warrior and leader. We’ll examine how discovering our identity in God enables us to overcome challenges and leave a lasting legacy.

Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we study the life of Gideon, open our hearts to Your truth. Help us to see ourselves as You see us and to embrace the calling You have placed on our lives. Give us the courage to step out in faith and the wisdom to recognize Your voice. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Introduction

Gideon’s story is one of transformation - from a fearful man hiding in a winepress to a mighty warrior leading an army to victory. Through his journey, we learn valuable lessons about faith, identity, and how God can use anyone who is willing to trust Him.

Main Lesson: Gideon’s Transformation

God Sees Our True Identity

When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he addressed him as a “mighty warrior” (Judges 6:12 NIV), despite Gideon’s current state of fear and hiding. This teaches us that God sees us not as we are, but as we can be through His power. God’s perspective on our identity is often vastly different from our own self-perception. He sees the potential within us, even when we’re at our lowest point.

Overcoming Fear and Insecurity

Gideon’s initial response to God’s call was filled with doubt and excuses. In Judges 6:15 (NIV), we read his reply: “Pardon me, my lord,” Gideon replied, “but how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.” Yet God patiently worked with him, providing signs and reassurance. This reminds us that God meets us where we are and helps us grow in faith. He understands our fears and insecurities and is willing to work through them with us.

The Importance of Obedience

Before leading an army, Gideon had to first obey God in his personal life by tearing down his father’s altar to Baal. Judges 6:25-27 (NIV) describes this act of obedience: “That same night the Lord said to him, ‘Take the second bull from your father’s herd, the one seven years old. Tear down your father’s altar to Baal and cut down the Asherah pole beside it. Then build a proper kind of altar to the Lord your God on the top of this height.’” This teaches us that private faithfulness precedes public usefulness. Our personal obedience to God lays the foundation for our public ministry and impact.

God’s Power, Not Our Own

God reduced Gideon’s army from 32,000 to 300 men to demonstrate that victory comes through His power, not human strength. Judges 7:2 (NIV) explains God’s reasoning: “The Lord said to Gideon, ‘You have too many men. I cannot deliver Midian into their hands, or Israel would boast against me, “My own strength has saved me.” This challenges us to rely on God’s strength rather than our own abilities. When we face overwhelming odds, we’re reminded that our success depends on God’s power, not our resources or capabilities.

Leaving a Legacy of Faith

Gideon’s transformation from a fearful man to a leader mentioned in Hebrews 11’s “Hall of Faith” shows us that anyone can leave a legacy of faith when they trust and obey God. Hebrews 11:32-34 (NIV) includes Gideon among those who “through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the edge of the sword; whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies.” This reminds us that our legacy is not determined by our starting point, but by our willingness to walk in faith with God.

Discussion Questions

1. How does understanding God’s view of you differ from how you see yourself? How might this change your approach to challenges?

2. What fears or insecurities are holding you back from fully embracing God’s calling in your life?

3. In what areas of your private life do you need to be more obedient to God? How might this impact your public witness?

4. Can you share a time when God used your weakness to show His strength?

5. What steps can you take to surround yourself with people who will encourage your faith, like Gideon’s 300 chosen men?

Application

1. Reflect on how God sees you. Write down three characteristics God might use to describe you, based on your potential in Him.

2. Identify one area of fear in your life. What is one step you can take this week to face that fear with God’s help?

3. Is there anything in your life, like Gideon’s father’s altar, that needs to be removed for you to fully follow God? Make a plan to address it.

4. Think of a situation where you’re tempted to rely on your own strength. How can you intentionally rely on God’s power instead?

5. Consider your legacy. What is one action you can take this week to strengthen your faith and positively impact others?

Closing Prayer

Lord, thank You for the example of Gideon and how You transformed him. Help us see ourselves as You see us and to step out in faith, even when we feel inadequate. Give us the courage to obey you in both private and public areas of our lives. May we rely on Your strength and not our own as we seek to leave a legacy that honors You? In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Continue to Part VII: Nehemiah - A Model of Godly Leadership

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