Judges 7:13
And when Gideon was come, behold, there was a man that told a dream unto his fellow, and said, Behold, I dreamed a dream, and, lo, a cake of barley bread tumbled into the host of Midian, and came unto a tent, and smote it that it fell, and overturned it, that the tent lay along.
Judges 7:13 (KJV)
Context
The book of Judges recounts the period of Israel’s history after they settled in the Promised Land, but before the establishment of a monarchy. The Israelites went through a cycle of disobedience, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. In this particular chapter, Gideon is chosen by God to lead the Israelites against the Midianites.
Meaning
In this verse, Gideon comes to the edge of the Midianite camp and overhears a man telling his fellow a dream. The dream involves a cake of barley bread that tumbles into the camp, strikes a tent, and overturns it so that the tent collapses. The man’s companion immediately interprets it: “This is nothing else save the sword of Gideon the son of Joash, a man of Israel: for into his hand hath God delivered Midian, and all the host.” This dream is a divine sign to Gideon, confirming that God has already given the Midianite camp into his hands.
The cake of barley bread represents Gideon and his army. Barley bread was a common food of the poor, indicating the humble and weak state of the Israelites compared to the mighty Midianite army. God often chooses the weak and insignificant to accomplish His purposes, showcasing His power and sovereignty. The falling cake destroys a tent, symbolizing the collapse of the Midianite camp and the imminent defeat of their forces.
The dream’s interpretation by a Midianite soldier underscores that God sovereignly controls even the thoughts and dreams of Israel’s enemies to accomplish His purposes. This event directly prepares for Gideon’s worship and the subsequent battle plan, where God reduces his army to three hundred men to ensure that Israel recognizes the victory as God’s doing, not their own.
Application
As believers, we can draw several lessons from this passage. We should remember that God can use ordinary and seemingly insignificant individuals to accomplish His purposes. It is crucial to trust in God’s promises and seek His guidance, even in the face of overwhelming odds. God’s power is not limited by human limitations, and when we place our faith in Him, He can bring about extraordinary victories. The passage teaches that God often uses the weak and despised to overthrow the powerful, so that His glory is clearly displayed. It also demonstrates that God can give His people assurance of victory through unexpected means, strengthening their faith for obedience.
Reflection
Consider how God might be speaking to you through unexpected circumstances or even through the words of others. Just as Gideon received encouragement through a dream, God can provide assurance and direction in ways that surpass human understanding. Trust that the same God who delivered Midian into Gideon’s hand is at work in your situation, and rely on His strength rather than your own resources.
