The people—with thee are too many for me— It is equal to Omnipotence to save by many or few; but, designing in this case to make it alike conspicuous to the Israelites and the neighbouring nations, that the victory was wholly owing to his interposition, God was pleased to order it in such a manner, as to prove, beyond doubt, that he alone was the author of it.
REFLECTIONS.—Gideon, now fully convinced of his mission, is in haste to execute it. At early dawn he rises, his army is drawn out, and his camp fixed near the well of Harod. Diligence in duty must follow faith in the promise. The disproportion was very great, indeed, between the hosts of Midian and Israel; but, instead of lessening, God will have it increased, that they may see it was not their own arm which saved them. For this purpose, God commands,
1. Proclamation to be made through the camp, for the fearful and faint-hearted to depart before the next morning. Gideon obeys, and more than two-thirds of this little army shamefully turn their backs, and embrace the offer. Probably they had run together in haste at first; but when they saw the numerous host of Midian, wished themselves safe at home again. Note; (1.) Many take up with the profession of Christ's service, who have never weighed the consequence, and therefore quickly start aside like a broken bow. (2.) They who are enslaved by the fear of man, are better out of God's camp than in it, as their fearfulness is apt to be contagious, and to discourage the faithful.
2. Ten thousand remained, and these were yet too many: they might think their valour made up for the want of numbers, and ascribe the victory to themselves; therefore, another separation is made, by bringing them to the water to drink, and selecting those who lapped out of their hands from those who kneeled down to drink, which reduced their numbers to 300 men, and all the rest were dismissed. Thus Gideon's faith was eminently displayed, and his readiness to trust the matter entirely with God appeared. Note; (1.) God's ways are often mysterious, and he reduces his people to the greater straits, that his own glory may the more be magnified in their preservation. (2.) When faith is in exercise, no difficulties will make us stagger at the promise.
3. The 300 that remain when their brethren have been dismissed, are also in no wise accoutred as combatants. They are armed with trumpets instead of swords, and carry their victuals in their hands, as if God had designed that they should spend the day with music and feasting, instead of meeting their enemies in a field of battle. Note; (1.) God's work is often accomplished by the most unlikely means. (2.) When God commands to arms, and appoints our weapons, we may safely advance against our most formidable enemies, though armed only with a trumpet, or five smooth stones.