“And Gideon went up by the way of them that dwelt in tents on the east of Nobah and Jogbehah, and smote the host: for the host was secure.”
Historical Context:The book of Judges describes a period in Israel’s history after they had entered the Promised Land, but before the establishment of a monarchy. During this time, the Israelites faced cycles of rebellion, oppression by neighbouring nations, repentance, and deliverance through judges raised by God.
The Story of Gideon:Gideon was one of the judges whom God raised up to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites. In Judges 6, we read about how God called Gideon, who initially doubted his own abilities but eventually obeyed God’s command to lead the Israelites into battle.
Gideon’s Preparation for Battle:In Judges 7, Gideon assembled an army of 32,000 men to confront the Midianites. However, God instructed him to reduce the number significantly, so that Israel would know that their victory was due to God’s power and not their own strength. Gideon ended up with only 300 men.
Gideon’s Attack on the Midianite Camp:In Judges 8:10, we learn that Gideon and his small army pursued the Midianites and arrived at their camp. Verse 11 states that Gideon went up by the way of the tents on the east of Nobah and Jogbehah. These locations were likely part of the territories of the nomadic tribes that the Midianites had subjugated.
The Significance of the Host’s Security:Judges 8:11 states that the host (the Midianite camp) was secure. This indicates that the Midianites were confident in their strength and felt safe in their camp. They were unaware of Gideon’s presence or the impending attack, which made them vulnerable to a surprise assault.
Gideon’s Victory:In the following verses (Judges 8:12-21), we read how Gideon divided his 300 men into three groups and orchestrated a clever attack on the Midianite camp. They blew trumpets, broke pitchers, and shouted, causing confusion and panic among the Midianites. The Midianite army turned on itself, resulting in a decisive victory for Gideon and his men.
Lessons from Judges 8:11:
- God’s Ways are Different:Gideon’s victory with only 300 men against a vast army highlights that God’s ways are not always conventional. He doesn’t require large numbers or human strength to achieve His purposes. He looks for hearts that are fully surrendered to Him.
- God’s Timing is Perfect:The fact that the Midianite camp was secure demonstrates that God had orchestrated the situation. His timing was impeccable, allowing Gideon and his men to catch the Midianites off guard.
- Trusting in God’s Strength:Gideon’s success in the face of overwhelming odds emphasizes the importance of relying on God’s strength rather than our own abilities. When we trust in God and follow His leading, He can accomplish great things through us.
In conclusion, Judges 8:11 recounts a pivotal moment in the story of Gideon, where he boldly attacked the secure camp of the Midianites. This verse reminds us of the power of God, His unconventional methods, and the importance of trusting in Him rather than relying on our own strength.
