August 13

Introduction

Judges 7:1–25: The LORD tells Gideon to reduce the size of his army and gives him instructions for doing so. Though outnumbered, the Israelites are successful in attacking the Midianites at night and capturing and killing the two Midianite chiefs, Oreb and Zeeb, whose Hebrew names mean “Raven” and “Wolf.” (The Israelites considered the raven, a scavenger bird, to be unclean. The wolf was a feared killer of flocks and herds.)

Today’s Key Verse: Judges 7:9

That night the LORD commanded Gideon, “Get up and attack the camp; I am giving you victory over it.”

Reflect

Why did the LORD instruct Gideon to reduce the size of his army? Reread verses 4–8. What instructions did the LORD give to Gideon for separating the men? (Soldiers who lapped water from their hands were probably better prepared to grab their weapons at a moment’s notice, whereas those who knelt and put their faces directly into the water might not see an enemy approaching.) Before attacking the Midianites, what instructions did the LORD give to Gideon (verses 9–11)?

Pray

All-Powerful God, you are the source of all victory. All honor, glory, and praise belong to you. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Judges 8:1–28: The Israelites seek to make Gideon their ruler.