It may surprise you what happens when you take a stand for God. Some people will disappoint you by their opposition. But others might just step up their own faith as a result of what they witness in you.
Gideon’s own father had succumbed to the pressures in his society. He had constructed a prominent altar to Baal on his property as well as a graven image. He had sold out. His home was a testimony to idolatry rather than to godliness. Perhaps Joash felt the pressure to please his neighbors if he was to achieve business success. Maybe he cared more about what his neighbors thought than what God thought. Yet surprisingly, when his young son took a courageous stand for God, rather than becoming upset, the wayward father was emboldened to defend his son and take a stand for righteousness.
Joash mocked the idol he had been worshiping, claiming it ought to be able to defend its own reputation. Clearly Joash had become disillusioned with the empty promises of his idol. All he needed was the inspiration of someone having the courage to point out the impotence of the prevailing religion. Once Gideon had the courage to take a stand for God, his family began to follow suit.
Who might be encouraged to trust God if only they could witness you doing so first?