In the biblical narrative, the concept of a "plan of attack" is often associated with divine strategy and guidance in warfare, reflecting God's sovereignty and the importance of obedience to His commands. Throughout the Old Testament, God frequently provides specific instructions for military engagements, underscoring the belief that victory is granted by the Lord rather than by human might or strategy alone.

Jericho and Joshua's Leadership

One of the most notable examples of a divinely orchestrated plan of attack is found in the Book of Joshua, during the conquest of Jericho. God provides Joshua with a unique strategy that defies conventional military tactics. The Israelites are instructed to march around the city once a day for six days, with seven priests carrying trumpets of rams' horns before the Ark of the Covenant. On the seventh day, they are to march around the city seven times, and the priests are to blow the trumpets. Joshua 6:5 states, "And when there is a long blast of the ram’s horn and you hear its sound, have all the people give a mighty shout. Then the wall of the city will collapse, and the people will go up, each man straight ahead." This plan emphasizes faith and obedience, as the walls of Jericho fall not by force but by adherence to God's command.

Gideon's Victory Over the Midianites

Another significant instance is Gideon's victory over the Midianites, as recorded in Judges 7. God reduces Gideon's army from 32,000 to 300 men to demonstrate that the victory is His alone. The plan involves a nighttime surprise attack using trumpets, jars, and torches. Judges 7:20-21 describes the execution: "The three companies blew their trumpets and shattered their jars. Holding the torches in their left hands and the trumpets in their right hands, they shouted, 'A sword for the LORD and for Gideon!' Each Israelite took his position around the camp, and the entire Midianite army fled, crying out as they ran." This unconventional strategy highlights God's power and the importance of reliance on Him rather than numerical strength.

David's Inquiry of the Lord

King David frequently sought the Lord's guidance before engaging in battle, demonstrating the importance of divine counsel in forming a plan of attack. In 2 Samuel 5:19 , David inquires of the Lord, "Should I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?" The Lord responds affirmatively, and David follows God's instructions, resulting in victory. This pattern of seeking God's will is a recurring theme in David's military campaigns, illustrating the belief that success is contingent upon divine approval and direction.

Jehoshaphat's Battle Strategy

In 2 Chronicles 20, King Jehoshaphat faces a formidable alliance of enemies. Instead of relying on military prowess, he leads the people of Judah in prayer and fasting, seeking God's intervention. The Lord responds through the prophet Jahaziel, instructing them not to fear and assuring them of His presence. 2 Chronicles 20:17 records God's promise: "You need not fight this battle. Take up your positions, stand firm, and see the salvation of the LORD on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem." The subsequent victory, achieved without traditional combat, underscores the power of faith and divine deliverance.

Conclusion

The biblical accounts of plans of attack reveal a consistent theme: the necessity of divine guidance and the futility of relying solely on human strength. These narratives serve as reminders of God's sovereignty and the importance of obedience and faith in His plans.