5 He said to the men of Sukkoth, “Give my troops some bread; they are worn out, and I am still pursuing Zebah and Zalmunna, the kings of Midian.”
6 But the officials of Sukkoth said, “Do you already have the hands of Zebah and Zalmunna in your possession? Why should we give bread to your troops?”
7 Then Gideon replied, “Just for that, when the Lord has given Zebah and Zalmunna into my hand, I will tear your flesh with desert thorns and briers.”
8 From there he went up to Peniel and made the same request of them, but they answered as the men of Sukkoth had. 9 So he said to the men of Peniel, “When I return in triumph, I will tear down this tower.”
The leaders of Succoth did not realize that victory was certain because God was with Gideon. They were too worried about saving themselves that they never did think about how God’s power was working. We, ourselves, may have so much fear for ourselves that we do not see God’s presence with us and in other people. This can cause us to miss opportunities to work with others for God’s purposes. God will prevail with or without you. Look for God’s presence. Lend support with your time, money, talents, and prayers.