Definition and Context:
Military strength in the biblical context refers to the power and capability of a nation or group to defend itself and exert influence through armed forces. This concept is often associated with the size of an army, the skill of its warriors, the quality of its weapons, and the strategic acumen of its leaders. In the Bible, military strength is frequently depicted as a means by which nations achieve security, expand territory, and enforce justice or judgment.

Old Testament References:
The Old Testament contains numerous accounts of military strength, often highlighting the tension between reliance on human power and trust in divine intervention. For instance, in Deuteronomy 20:1, the Israelites are reminded, "When you go out to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots and an army larger than yours, do not be afraid of them, for the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, is with you." This passage underscores the belief that true strength comes from God rather than mere numbers or weaponry.

The account of Gideon in Judges 7 illustrates this principle vividly. God reduces Gideon's army from 32,000 to 300 men to demonstrate that victory is achieved through divine power, not human might. Similarly, in 1 Samuel 17, David's triumph over Goliath serves as a testament to faith in God over physical prowess.

Kings and Military Might:
The reigns of Israel's kings often involved assessments of military strength. King Saul, Israel's first king, was chosen partly for his ability to lead in battle (1 Samuel 9:16). King David, renowned for his military exploits, expanded Israel's borders and established it as a formidable power in the region. His reliance on God for victory is evident in passages like 2 Samuel 22:33-35: "God is my strong fortress and He makes my way clear. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer and stations me upon the heights. He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze."

King Solomon, David's son, inherited a strong military but is noted more for his wisdom and the peace that characterized much of his reign. However, Solomon's accumulation of chariots and horses (1 Kings 10:26) is seen as a departure from reliance on God, reflecting a shift towards human reliance on military might.

Prophetic Warnings:
The prophets often warned against placing trust in military strength over God. Isaiah 31:1 cautions, "Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who trust in the abundance of chariots and in the multitude of horsemen. They do not look to the Holy One of Israel; they do not seek the LORD." This warning reflects a recurring biblical theme: the futility of relying solely on human power.

New Testament Perspective:
In the New Testament, the focus shifts from physical military strength to spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:10-12 exhorts believers to "be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes." Here, the emphasis is on spiritual readiness and reliance on God's power rather than physical might.

Conclusion:
Throughout the Bible, military strength is acknowledged as a significant factor in the affairs of nations. However, the consistent biblical message is that true security and victory come from reliance on God rather than human military capabilities. This perspective encourages a balance between responsible stewardship of military resources and a profound trust in divine sovereignty.