Two men, both named Gideon, fought with swords but trusted God to lead them to victory. Both implemented creative strategies to lead their people out of captivity, despite being outnumbered. We can move forward with confidence when we remember that God will fight our battles.
Holy Convocations
God specified eight holy days as part of the law of Moses. He called all of them "holy convocations," or times for formal gatherings. He also instructed the people to set aside "servile work," or everyday labors. On holy days, we set aside our daily cares and focus on worshipping together.
There Was Corn in Egypt
When Joseph helped Pharaoh store food, he created a resource not only for Egypt but also for others, including his family in Canaan. Self-reliance is not only for our own benefit. It also empowers us to serve and give.
Collaboration vs. Individualism
It's good to achieve personal goals, but it can be even more rewarding to work with others to achieve collective goals. Doctrine and Covenants 136 teaches many principles about how to collaborate, including the importance of setting aside our egos, keeping commitments to other team members, and treating others kindly.
A Healthful Habitation
God commanded church members in Nauvoo to construct two buildings: a temple and a boarding house. The boarding house was described as "a healthful habitation," where "weary travelers" could rest and contemplate eternal truths. We can work to make our homes "healthful habitations," both for the benefit of our own families and for our guests.
Caring for the Poor and the Needy: Three Principles from God’s Law
Doctrine and Covenants 42 and 44 teach three principles to help us care for the poor and needy: 1. When you have more than enough, share. 2. A gift is a gift. Once given, it is no longer yours. 3. Do something now; don't wait for the perfect organization before giving.
Civility
When church members were being persecuted, they were urged not to reciprocate. As we interact with people who disagree with us, we can practice civility by being good listeners, framing our positions noncontentiously, and showing genuine love for others.
Obeying, Honoring, and Sustaining the Law
After King Mosiah's death, the people were obligated to obey the law which they had accepted. In a democracy, we are governed by law, not by individuals. Disciples of Christ have a responsibility to not only obey but also honor and sustain the law.
Gideon
Lessons from Limhi's servant Gideon: 1. You don't have to be in a position of authority to be a leader. 2. Speak up when you have a good idea or when something isn't right. 3. Give people the benefit of the doubt. 4. Defend the truth, and defend freedom.
No Respecter of Persons
God doesn't show favoritism. The Greek word prosopolemptes means literally "countenance-taker." The word appears in our Bible as "respecter of persons." God doesn't favor people based on worldly measures of success—and neither should we.