“So Gideon, and the hundred men that were with him, came unto the outside of the camp in the beginning of the middle watch; and they had but newly set the watch: and they blew the trumpets, and brake the pitchers that were in their hands.”
Context:The book of Judges recounts the period in Israel’s history after the death of Joshua, when the Israelites were ruled by a series of judges. During this time, the Israelites would often turn away from God, and as a consequence, they would face oppression from their enemies. In Judges 6, we read about Gideon, who was called by God to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites.
The Midianite Oppression:The Midianites were a neighbouring tribe that, along with other nations, oppressed the Israelites for seven years. The Midianites would invade the land during the harvest season and destroy the crops, causing great hardship for the Israelites. As a result, the Israelites cried out to God for help.
Gideon’s Preparation:In response to their cries, God chose Gideon to be the one who would lead Israel to victory. However, before Gideon could lead the Israelites into battle, he needed to be assured of God’s presence and guidance. Gideon asked God for signs, and God graciously confirmed His call through a series of miracles.
The Night Attack:In Judges 7:19, we find Gideon and his small army of only 300 men preparing for a surprise attack on the Midianite camp. It was the middle of the night, during the beginning of the middle watch (around 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.). The 300 men divided into three companies, surrounding the Midianite camp.
The Trumpets and Pitchers:At the appointed time, Gideon and his men blew their trumpets and broke the pitchers that were in their hands. The sudden noise of the trumpets and the breaking of the pitchers created confusion and panic among the Midianites, who were caught off guard in their sleep.
The Victory:As a result of this surprise attack, the Midianites were thrown into disarray. They started fighting each other, and many fled from the camp. Gideon and his men pursued the fleeing Midianites and secured a great victory over their oppressors, all through the power and guidance of God.
Lessons from Judges 7:19:
- Reliance on God:Gideon’s victory was not due to the strength or size of his army but to his dependence on God. The story of Gideon reminds us that God can use the weak and the few to accomplish His purposes when they place their trust in Him.
- Obedience and Faith:Gideon and his men followed God’s instructions precisely. They blew the trumpets and broke the pitchers as commanded. Their obedience and faith in carrying out God’s instructions played a vital role in their victory. This teaches us the importance of trusting and obeying God’s guidance in our lives.
- God’s Power in Weakness:The breaking of the pitchers and the blowing of the trumpets may seem like unconventional military tactics, but it was through this seemingly weak and foolish act that God demonstrated His power. It reminds us that God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9), and He can use unexpected means to achieve His purposes.
In conclusion, Judges 7:19 reveals God’s faithfulness to His people and His willingness to work through those who trust and obey Him. It also teaches us the importance of relying on God’s strength and guidance, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
