So two thirds of Gideon's army were afraid to fight, lacking faith and were allowed to leave. They were followers who I presume had professed some faith in God and his promise to use Gideon to overtake Midianites, but when push came to shove they did have doubts. From the remaining 10,000 fearless (maybe more faithful followers?) God tells him to cut his numbers even further eventually down 300 from the original 32,000. He delivers on his promise with only 300 troops--clearly demonstrating he has the power to do anything.
I'd like to think I would have made the cut into the 10,000 but I have a feeling I would have been on the fearful side seeing how clearly we would be out numbered and doubting God could make this work out. I definitely need work in the area of living on faith, I tend to need things to be very logical or doubts creep into my thoughts.
later, knut
2 things.
ReplyDeleteDo you think the 300 that were chosen were the biggest and the strongest? I don't think so. God seems to be on a mission here to show Gideon/Israel what he can do. It wouldn't surprise me if they were the smallest/weakest 300.
Second....it bothers me a little that the Israelites shouted, "A sword for the LORD and for Gideon!” Doesn't that seem to elevate Gideon to an even playing field with God.....something to think about.