Stop Hiding And Live Out YOUR Mandate (S.H.A.L.O.M.) (Judges 6: 11-12. 14-16. 23-24)

We all have moments when we feel like retreating into our shells, hiding from the world and the challenges it presents. But what if that hiding place is keeping us from fulfilling our true purpose? What if God is calling us to step out and embrace the gifts He's given us?

The story of Gideon in the book of Judges offers a powerful illustration of this struggle. We find Gideon threshing wheat in a winepress, hiding from the Midianites who have been oppressing Israel. It's in this moment of fear and uncertainty that God calls him a "mighty warrior" and tasks him with saving his people.

At first glance, this seems absurd. Gideon, hiding in fear, doesn't see himself as a warrior at all. He protests, pointing out his clan's weakness and his own insignificance. But God sees something in Gideon that he can't yet see in himself.

How often do we find ourselves in similar situations? We hide our talents, downplay our abilities, and make excuses for why we can't step up to the challenges before us. We might even be angry with God, questioning why He's allowed difficult circumstances in our lives. Like Gideon, we may ask, "If the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us?"

But here's the truth we need to grasp: God doesn't call the qualified; He qualifies the called. When God finds us in our hiding places, He doesn't see our weaknesses or past failures. He sees the potential He placed within us.

So how do we know if we're hiding? Here are a few signs:

We're misusing our skills: Like Gideon threshing wheat in a winepress (a task that would contaminate the wheat), we might be busy with work that doesn't utilize our true gifts.

We're making excuses: When opportunities arise, our first response is to list all the reasons why we can't or shouldn't step up.

We're complaining without taking action: It's easy to point out problems, but are we willing to be part of the solution?

Why do we hide? Often, it's because we lack confidence in our capabilities. We compare ourselves to others and find ourselves wanting. Or we've experienced failures in the past and can only see our future through that lens of disappointment.

But here's the good news: failure is not final unless we stop trying. Our past doesn't define our future. Who we were is not who we are, and who we are is not who we will be. We're constantly changing and growing, and God sees the full picture of who we can become.

So how do we step out of hiding?

First, we need to be found. Sometimes, we need someone to seek us out, to invite us to participate, to show us that we're wanted and needed. And when someone does reach out, we need to be open to their invitation.

Second, we need patience in our process. When we're stepping out of our comfort zones, we might fumble or struggle. We need people around us who will encourage us without patronizing us, who will give us space to grow without pushing us back into our shells.

Finally, and most importantly, we need to talk to God and let Him reassure us that He's got us. Throughout scripture, we see God stepping in to rescue, guide, and empower His people. From creating the heavens and earth to rescuing Hagar in the wilderness, from speaking to Moses in the burning bush to joining the three Hebrew boys in the fiery furnace, God has always been active in human affairs.

The ultimate example of God stepping in is, of course, Jesus Christ. As John 1:14 tells us, "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us." God stepped from divinity into humanity to rescue us from what we couldn't escape on our own.

Because God stepped in, we can step out. There's a legacy and a future depending on us coming out of our hiding places. Like Gideon, whose obedience led to the liberation of Israel from the Midianites, our willingness to step out in faith can have far-reaching consequences we can't even imagine.

So today, let's make a decision. Let's stop hiding. Let's bury the hurt, stop the excuses, and step out into the place God has called us to be. Whether that means joining a ministry, reconnecting with your faith community, or simply being more open about your beliefs and talents, take that first step.

Remember, you are worthy. You are wanted. You are necessary. God has gifted you with unique talents and experiences, and He wants to use those for His glory and the benefit of others.

If you've been hiding, if you've strayed away from your faith, or if you've never committed your life to Christ, today is the day to step out. God hasn't left you or forgotten about you. He's been there all along, waiting for you to turn back to Him.

In the words of Shonda Rhimes, "If I don't poke my head out of my shell and show people who I am, all anyone will ever think I am is my shell." It's time to show the world who you really are – the person God created you to be.

Don't let fear, past failures, or comparisons to others keep you in hiding. Your gifts are needed. Your voice matters. Your presence makes a difference. Step out of the shadows, get off the bench, and get into the game. The world is waiting for what only you can bring.

As you reflect on this message, ask yourself: Where am I hiding? What gifts am I not using? What excuses am I making? Then, take a moment to pray, asking God for the courage to step out and live the life He's calling you to live.

Remember, you're not stepping out alone. God is with you, empowering you, and He's placed people around you to support and encourage you. It's time to stop hiding and start living out your divine mandate. The journey may be challenging, but it's one that leads to fulfillment, purpose, and a life that truly makes a difference.