IDENTIFY WITH BIBLE CHARACTERS

I had been reading the Bible regularly for two decades. Then I was forced into preaching two first person sermons by my D.Min. preaching professor, Haddon Robinson. To preach such a sermon well, you need to identify with; to work hard to "become the Bible character." Just like an actor, you have to study the character, trying to imagine all that they were experiencing, thinking and feeling. To do this is hard work, but it brings biblical stories alive - first for the preacher and then for his listeners.
Ever since, when I read over familiar biblical stories, I try to really identify with biblical characters. For example, I tend to be critical of and then filled with admiration for Gideon, featured in Judges 6 to 8. I can understand why he was hiding in the winepress (see a previous blog). But I don't know why his faith was so weak that he needed to "put out a fleece", not once but twice. After all God had sent the angel of the Lord to strongly assure him of victory over Israel's enemies. Why did he need two miracles?
On the other hand when I follow his story, I greatly admire his willingness to lead his army into battle. God insisted that the army be reduced from 32,000 to 10,000 to 300 soldiers. That is a loss of 99% before even beginning to fight. Can you imagine what amazing faith this warrior had as God insists on shrinking the army to almost nothing?
Little faith, then lots of faith. Sounds like my experience - what about you? There are times when I find it relatively easy to trust that God is in control. I am confident that He will provide; He will supply; He will give me the strength and wisdom I need. And then there are other times! Now I never have believed in "putting out a fleece" as some Christians do. I don't think Gideon's actions are given as teaching for us. On the other hand, I am sure thankful for every time I do receive another reminder that God can be trusted.
Of course the main character in Judges 6 - 8 is not Gideon, it is our great God. And so it is in our story. We are simply a small part of His Story. "So please, increase our faith Lord."