Why I Like Gideon

Maybe the title is a misnomer. It could be better stated, "Why I like how God works through Gideon," but that doesn't sound very catchy. Last week I was reading in Judges. I always tune in a little more when I get to chapters 6 through 8 because I really like the story...at least the beginning, pre-idolatry part.

Israel is occupied by Midianities, apparently terrifying people. I picture them as large, sloppy, unkempt types with rotting teeth and faces stuck with an eternal scowl. So little Gideon is hiding from the big, bad Midianites, threshing wheat in a winepress. Now I don't know much about threshing wheat, but I don't think it's generally done in a winepress. Gideon is scared, so he tries to stay away from the bullies who would otherwise take his lunch.

Enter the angel of the Lord, who says to Gideon, "The Lord is with you, mighty warrior." I really don't think that Gideon looked the part. And I think that's one of the reasons I like the story. Much of the time, I don't feel very mighty or like a warrior, but as I let God define me, I see victory in great and harrowing battles. OK, so I haven't taken on the Ork or anything, but my battles are against lies I believe -- about myself, about God, about others. And lately I feel like Gideon must have felt...wowed by an amazing God. Now back to the story...

God tells Gideon that he is sending him to be the one to save Israel from Midian. Gideon incredulously replies, "How can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family." Definitely not who I'd pick as a leader. God responds, as He often does, "I will be with you..." Throughout the Bible, this is what God says after telling someone, "Do not be afraid." Ahhh...His presence, our greatest comfort and our greatest weapon.

Gideon, still incredulous, keeps asking God for signs to confirm that he heard Him correctly. God has been known to rebuke people for stuff like this, "Oh you of little faith..." But it seems that because God sees Gideon's heart, He mercifully gives him signs to prove that He's going to do what He said He'd do.

So then God amasses this huge army of brave Israelite warriors around Gideon and they far outnumber the Midianites and kick their butts. That's what you'd think. That's how I would script it. But no. God seems to like looking like the underdog. And then He surprises us, using the weak things of the world to shame the strong and the foolish things of the world to shame the wise.

What God does is give Gideon instructions, and, in short, Israel's army is reduced to 300 men who are about to face a bazillion Midianites. God instructs them to attack the Midianite camp armed with clay jars with torches in them, and trumpets. Hello! Those don't usually win battles. Again, not how I would script this. But by faith, these 300 guys approach the camp and shout, "A sword for the Lord and for Gideon!" You wouldn't think this would accomplish much. But the Bible says, "And the Midianites ran, crying out as they fled." It sounds humorous, really.

The Israelites blow their trumpets, and God causes the bad guys to turn on each other with their swords. Amazing! No strategic plan, no "Big L" leader, and the weaklings win because their God is strong.

I love that! Most of the time I wonder why God would choose to use me. In the end, I'm certain it has more to do with Who He is than who I am. So now I'm off to pick up my clay jar, torch, and trumpet. Look out, Midianites!