Why did God say, "too many men," in Judges 7:2 for victory? Setting the Scene Judges 6–7 records Israel oppressed by Midian. Gideon musters 32,000 soldiers, yet God declares: “And the LORD said to Gideon, ‘You have too many men for Me to deliver Midian into their hands. Israel would glorify itself over Me, saying, ‘My own hand has saved me.’ ” (Judges 7:2) God’s Concern: Preventing Misplaced Glory • Israel’s tendency: claim credit after victory (Deuteronomy 8:17). • Divine purpose: ensure the nation recognizes God, not human prowess, as Savior (Isaiah 42:8). • The reduction—from 32,000 to 300—left no reasonable doubt: victory would be supernatural. Lessons in Dependence 1. Numerical strength tempts self-reliance. 2. God removes props to teach trust in His sufficiency (Psalm 20:7). 3. Victory becomes a testimony that encourages future faithfulness (Joshua 4:24). The Principle of Divine Strength in Weakness • Old Testament echoes – Jonathan’s words: “Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few.” (1 Samuel 14:6) – Jehoshaphat’s prayer: “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You.” (2 Chronicles 20:12) • New Testament reinforcement – “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) – “So that no one may boast in His presence.” (1 Corinthians 1:29–31) What This Means For Us Today • God may thin our resources to realign our confidence toward Him. • Success attributed to His hand safeguards true worship and humility. • Reduced numbers or means are opportunities to watch the Lord work unmistakably, deepening faith and testimony. |
    |