Judges 4-6

In Judges 6:11 we are introduced to Gideon son of Joash when an angel greets him. When Gideon hears the greeting from the LORD Gideon responds with two very blod questions and an accusation that God had abandoned Israel. Gideon wasn't spouting atheistic statements but he was definately frustrated by God's apparent indifference. God directed the boldness of Gideon toward those who were really oppressing Israel. It's as if God were saying. "If you're looking for a deliverer check out your own reflection. You are the deliverer I have chosen." Immediately Gideon's attitude reverses; God has taken up Gideon's challange. He will deliver Israel; by the hand of Gideon the cowardly complainer. I believe God often does that to us as well. When we argue with God about his performance he opens the door for us to make a contribution.  Itks like God is telling us, "Put up or shut up.". And normally he doesn't want us to shut up.
It took me about 18 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart