“And thou shalt hear what they say; and afterward shall thine hands be strengthened to go down unto the host. Then went he down with Phurah his servant unto the outside of the armed men that were in the host.”
Context:The book of Judges records the history of Israel during the time after Joshua’s leadership, when the Israelites were governed by various judges. In this particular chapter, Gideon is chosen by God to lead the Israelites in a battle against the Midianites, who had oppressed them for seven years.
Seeking Confirmation:Before the battle, Gideon is unsure of God’s plan and seeks confirmation. In the previous verses, Gideon had received reassurance from God through two signs: the fleece test (Judges 6:36-40) and the dream of an enemy soldier (Judges 7:9-10). Now, Gideon is instructed to listen to what he will hear from the enemy’s camp.
Strengthening of Faith:God instructs Gideon that after hearing what the enemy soldiers say, his faith will be strengthened to go down against the Midianite army. This demonstrates God’s desire to bolster Gideon’s confidence and reliance on Him. God knows Gideon’s doubts and provides reassurance through this encounter.
Gideon’s Response:Gideon takes his servant Phurah and goes to the outskirts of the Midianite camp to listen. As Gideon listens, he overhears a soldier recounting a dream to his companion, where a loaf of barley bread rolls into the Midianite camp and destroys a tent. This interpretation symbolizes Gideon’s upcoming victory over the Midianites.
Encouragement for Gideon:Gideon, upon hearing the dream and its interpretation, is emboldened and returns to the Israelite camp, praising and worshiping God. He becomes convinced that God will deliver the Midianites into their hands.
Key Lessons:
- Seeking Confirmation:Gideon’s example shows the importance of seeking confirmation from God when faced with doubts or uncertainties. Just as Gideon sought God’s reassurance through the signs, we can also seek God’s guidance and confirmation through prayer, studying His Word, and seeking wise counsel.
- Strengthened Faith:Gideon’s faith was strengthened through God’s message in the enemy camp. Similarly, when we trust in God and listen to His voice, our faith can be strengthened. God often uses various means to speak to us, and we should be attentive to His leading and open to receiving His confirmation and encouragement.
- God’s Provision:God provided Gideon with the assurance he needed to step out in faith. Likewise, God equips and empowers His people to fulfill His purposes. When we rely on God, He strengthens us and enables us to overcome obstacles and achieve what seems impossible.
- Worship and Gratitude:Gideon’s response to God’s reassurance was to worship and praise Him. We should follow Gideon’s example by expressing gratitude and worship to God for His faithfulness, provision, and guidance in our lives.
In summary, Judges 7:11 teaches us the importance of seeking confirmation from God, trusting in His provision, and responding with worship and gratitude when He strengthens our faith.
