Judges 6:14

The LORD turned to him and said, "Go in the strength you have and save Israel from the hand of Midian. Am I not sending you?"

Study Bible

The LORD turned to him and said
This phrase marks a pivotal moment in the narrative, where divine attention is directly focused on Gideon. The Hebrew word for "turned" is "פָּנָה" (panah), which implies a turning of one's face or attention. This signifies a personal and intimate encounter with God, emphasizing His active involvement in the lives of His people. Historically, this reflects the theophany experiences common in the Old Testament, where God personally engages with individuals to initiate His plans.

“Go in the strength you have
The directive "Go" is a command that initiates action, reflecting God's call to obedience and faith. The Hebrew word "לֵךְ" (lek) is often used in commissioning contexts, indicating a divine mandate. "Strength" here is "כֹּחַ" (koach), which can mean physical strength, capacity, or ability. This phrase suggests that God acknowledges Gideon's current capabilities, however limited they may seem, and calls him to act within them. It underscores the biblical principle that God equips those He calls, often using what they already possess.

and deliver Israel from the hand of Midian
The word "deliver" is "הוֹשִׁיעַ" (hoshia), which is related to salvation and rescue. This is a recurring theme in the Book of Judges, where God raises deliverers to save Israel from oppression. The "hand of Midian" refers to the oppressive control and dominance the Midianites had over Israel at the time. Historically, the Midianites were a nomadic people who frequently raided Israel, leading to a period of severe hardship. This context highlights the cyclical nature of Israel's disobedience and God's redemptive intervention.

Am I not sending you?”
This rhetorical question emphasizes divine authority and assurance. The phrase "Am I not" in Hebrew is "הֲלֹא אָנֹכִי" (halo anokhi), which serves to affirm God's direct involvement and commissioning. The word "sending" is "שָׁלַח" (shalach), a term often used in the context of divine missions. This underscores the concept of divine calling and purpose, where God not only commands but also empowers and accompanies those He sends. It reassures Gideon—and the reader—that God's presence and authority back the mission, providing confidence and courage to undertake seemingly insurmountable tasks.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who is the central figure in this passage, commissioning Gideon for a divine task.

2. Gideon
A judge of Israel, chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from the oppression of the Midianites.

3. Israel
The nation chosen by God, suffering under the oppression of the Midianites due to their disobedience.

4. Midianites
A nomadic people who oppressed Israel, causing them to cry out to God for deliverance.

5. Ophrah
The location where the angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon, marking the beginning of his divine mission.

Teaching Points

Divine Calling and Empowerment
God often calls us to tasks that seem beyond our capabilities, but He equips us with the strength we need.

Obedience in Faith
Like Gideon, we must step out in faith, trusting that God is with us and will accomplish His purposes through us.

God's Presence
The assurance of God's presence ("Am I not sending you?") is crucial for overcoming fear and doubt.

God Uses the Unlikely
God often chooses those who seem least likely to succeed by human standards, demonstrating His power and glory.

Responding to Oppression
Just as Israel cried out to God in their distress, we are encouraged to seek God in times of trouble, trusting in His deliverance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Gideon's initial reaction to God's call reflect our own hesitations when faced with daunting tasks?

2. In what ways does God's assurance to Gideon ("Am I not sending you?") provide comfort and confidence in your own life?

3. How can we apply the principle of "going in the strength you have" in our daily challenges and spiritual battles?

4. What other biblical figures were called by God despite their perceived inadequacies, and how does this encourage you?

5. How does the account of Gideon inspire you to trust in God's plan and timing, even when circumstances seem overwhelming?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3
Just as God called Moses to deliver Israel from Egypt, He calls Gideon to deliver Israel from Midian, emphasizing God's pattern of raising leaders to rescue His people.

Philippians 4:13
This verse speaks to the strength believers have through Christ, paralleling the divine empowerment given to Gideon.

1 Samuel 16
God's choice of David, a seemingly unlikely candidate, mirrors His choice of Gideon, highlighting God's ability to use the humble and the weak.

Hebrews 11
Gideon is listed among the heroes of faith, demonstrating the importance of faith in God's promises and calling.