The Midianites were a nomadic people who would sweep into an area - as the Scripture describes, 'like locusts' - and ravage the land and inhabitants. The pagan nation of Midian had overthrown Israel. When we are introduced to Gideon, he is experiencing great adversity. It is developing a working knowledge of the characteristics of music styles, composers, and culture.' We had 'drop the needle tests,' in which the professor played a record, and students had to identify the specific work, the composer, and its period. Appreciation is not liking a particular style of music. The professor entered the class on the first day and said, 'Welcome to music appreciation, where you will grow in your knowledge and understanding of music. I learned what appreciation was during my freshman year of college in a music appreciation class. When I use the word appreciate, I refer to perception, not enjoyment or pleasure. The first guideline is to appreciate adversity.

We must never forget that the prophet Daniel said, 'those who know their God will do great exploits.' Jesus promised the Holy Spirit's power to enable His followers to do greater things than what Christ did during his earthly ministry. Pictured in the life of Gideon are several guidelines for all believers who desire to do great things for God. While the story may seem like one of those 'too good to be true' movies, this is historical reality with spiritual significance. Gideon plays the role of the unlikely hero who rises to the challenge against all odds to accomplish what most thought to be impossible. The story of Gideon reads like an action movie. This principle was true in Abraham's life, and it was illustrated in the life of Gideon. Sometimes God's best work is revealed in the lives of His messed up children. God established a divine covenant with him even though Abraham made some big mistakes by traveling to Egypt and fathering a child by Hagar. Sermon: Carry the Glory - 1 Chron., 2 Sam.ДЄbraham as the 'friend of God' and 'father of nations' experienced some highs and lows in his journey of faith.Gideon's Guidelines for Greatness - Judges 6-8.

Gideon bible for mac