Topical Bible: Cowardice: 20, 000 of Gideon's Army

◄ Cowardice: 20, 000 of Gideon's Army ►

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In the biblical narrative found in the Book of Judges, the account of Gideon's army provides a profound illustration of cowardice and divine selection. Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal, was called by God to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites. The Israelites had been suffering under Midianite domination due to their disobedience to God, and Gideon was chosen to lead them to freedom.

The account unfolds in Judges 7, where Gideon assembles an army to confront the Midianites. Initially, Gideon gathers 32,000 men, but God instructs him to reduce the number. The Lord tells Gideon, "You have too many men for Me to deliver Midian into their hands, lest Israel boast against Me, saying, ‘My own hand has saved me’" (Judges 7:2). This divine directive underscores the principle that victory is granted by God's power, not by human might.

To reduce the army, God commands Gideon to proclaim to the troops, "Whoever is fearful and trembling may turn back and leave Mount Gilead" (Judges 7:3). In response to this announcement, 22,000 men depart, leaving only 10,000. This significant reduction highlights the prevalence of fear and cowardice among the ranks. The departure of the fearful soldiers serves as a reminder of the human tendency to succumb to fear in the face of overwhelming odds.

The remaining 10,000 men are further tested by God, who instructs Gideon to bring them to the water. There, God tells Gideon to separate those who lap the water with their tongues like a dog from those who kneel to drink. Only 300 men lap the water, and God declares, "With the 300 men who lapped I will save you and deliver the Midianites into your hand" (Judges 7:7). This final selection emphasizes God's sovereignty and His ability to achieve victory through a faithful remnant.

The account of Gideon's army serves as a powerful lesson on the nature of cowardice and faith. The initial departure of the 22,000 fearful men illustrates the human inclination to retreat in the face of danger. However, it also highlights the importance of trust in God's provision and strength. The reduction of Gideon's army to a mere 300 men demonstrates that God often works through a faithful few to accomplish His purposes, ensuring that the glory of victory is attributed to Him alone.

In the broader biblical context, cowardice is often contrasted with faith and courage. Throughout Scripture, believers are encouraged to trust in God's promises and to stand firm in the face of adversity. The account of Gideon's army serves as a timeless reminder that true courage is rooted in faith and reliance on God's power, rather than in human strength or numbers.

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Judges 7:3
Now therefore go to, proclaim in the ears of the people, saying, Whoever is fearful and afraid, let him return and depart early from mount Gilead. And there returned of the people twenty and two thousand; and there remained ten thousand.
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