READ JUDGES 7
GO DEEPER
Judges 7 starts with the Lord directing Gideon to reduce the size of Israel's army to just three hundred men—a much smaller force than Gideon had envisioned. Despite facing a mismatch against the Midianite army, the Lord urges Gideon to have faith in Him. The victory depends solely on the Lord, but God ensures Gideon is given both guidance and reassurance in stepping out of his comfort zone and letting go of his preconceived notions about the battle.
In the second verse, the Lord explains why He sent soldiers home: to prevent Israel from exalting themselves above God and attributing their victory in battle to their own strength. By wanting to be Israel's deliverer, God safeguards them from the sin of pride. Additionally, in verse 9, God gives Gideon reassurance by declaring that He will deliver the Midianite camp into the hands of the Israelites, even though they have a small army of only 300 men. God ensures Gideon that victory is certain, rather than sending him into battle with an overwhelming force while He watches from afar. He consistently affirms Gideon of the impending triumph even before the battle commences, addressing his fears and giving him confidence with the assurance of success.
Similar to Gideon, the Lord may require us to let go of comfort or give up our expectations for the future, but never without purpose. Even if we do not fully understand why certain plans do not come to fruition, we can have faith in the assurance that God orchestrates everything for our benefit. Because His essence is goodness and His thoughts and ways surpass human understanding. Moreover, the greatest reassurance and clarity for Gideon did not lie in the victory itself, but in the prior certainty of God's continual presence. God intends to offer everyone the assurance of His presence today, which He grants us through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. He faithfully carries out His role as a savior in the lives of those who have embraced Jesus.
QUESTIONS
1. How has the Lord demonstrated His faithfulness in previous situations, either in your own life, someone else's life, or a story from the Bible?
2. Are there any areas where it is particularly difficult for you to rely on the Lord?
3. What can you ask the Lord to help you overcome or be freed from today?