JUDGES 7

GIDEON RECRUITS A GREAT ARMY + BATTLES WITH ONLY 300 MEN

Preparing to lead the Israelites in victory over the Midianites, Gideon gathers an army of thirty-two thousand men. God tells Gideon that he has recruited too many men. God wants to be glorified for the Israelites’ victory and does not want them to believe their victory came from their own strength.

Gideon releases twenty-two thousand men, decreasing his army to ten thousand. Still having too many men, God brings the Israelites to the edge of the water to enact an unusual selection process based on how they drank. According to God’s requirement, only those who cupped the water with their hands and brought it to their mouths were chosen. As a result, only three hundred men remained in the Israelite army.

Following God’s instructions, Gideon spies on the Midianites. He overheard a dream interpreter proclaim that Israel would prevail over the Midianites. God’s perfect timing allowed Gideon to overhear a conversation that gave him more confidence in God’s plan for Israel.

When the time comes for battle, Gideon uses a strange strategy including trumpets, torches, and jars. Upon Gideon’s command, the Israelites blow the trumpets, light the torches, and break the jars. God keeps His promise to Gideon and leads them in victory over the Midianites.