“And the LORD said unto Gideon, The people that are with thee are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me.”
Historical Context:The book of Judges describes a period in Israel’s history when they were governed by judges who were raised up by God to deliver them from oppression and lead them in times of crisis. During this time, the Israelites frequently turned away from God and faced the consequences of their disobedience. Judges 6 and 7 specifically focus on the story of Gideon, one of the judges chosen by God.
Gideon’s Calling:Before Judges 7:2, we learn that the Midianites had been oppressing the Israelites for seven years. God chose Gideon, from the tribe of Manasseh, to deliver the Israelites from the Midianites. Gideon was initially hesitant and doubted his ability to fulfill this task. However, after God provided signs and reassurance, Gideon obeyed God’s call.
Too Many People:In Judges 7:2, God speaks to Gideon and expresses concern that the number of Israelite soldiers is too great. He says, “The people that are with thee are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hands.” This might seem counterintuitive because one would assume that a larger army would have a better chance of victory. However, God had a specific reason for reducing the number of soldiers.
God’s Reasoning:The verse continues, “lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me.” God’s primary concern was that the Israelites would take credit for their victory rather than recognizing God’s hand in their deliverance. By reducing the size of the army, God ensured that Israel would understand that their victory was solely dependent on His power and intervention.
Lessons for Today:
- Dependence on God:The story of Gideon teaches us the importance of relying on God’s strength rather than our own. It reminds us that true victory comes when we trust in God’s power rather than our own abilities or resources.
- Humility:God desired to teach the Israelites humility by diminishing their numbers. Similarly, we should recognize that any success or achievements we experience are ultimately due to God’s grace and guidance. It is essential to remain humble and give glory to God for the victories we achieve.
- Trusting God’s Guidance:Gideon could have doubted God’s instructions and clung to the larger army, but he chose to trust in God’s wisdom. We should learn from Gideon’s example and trust God’s guidance even when it goes against our own understanding.
- God’s Ways Are Different:God’s ways often defy human logic and expectations. In this case, the reduction of the Israelite army seemed counterproductive, but it ultimately led to their victory. We should be open to God’s unconventional methods and trust that He knows what is best for us.
In conclusion, Judges 7:2 teaches us about the importance of depending on God, remaining humble, trusting His guidance, and recognizing that His ways are often different from ours. By reducing the number of soldiers, God ensured that Israel would understand the true source of their victory and give glory to Him alone.
