In Judges 7 we see that Gideon’s trumpet has brought forth all the man of Abiezer and then some.
2 And the LORD said unto Gideon, The people that are with thee are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, “Mine own hand hath saved me.” (KJV)
The Professor Paul Tanner makes an important point about this passage:
“Judges 7:2 is one of the most important verses in the Bible for understanding God’s principles of spiritual warfare. God is not interested in simply giving His people victory. He is concerned with teaching us trust. In fact, if our victories make us self-reliant, they are ultimately more disastrous than utter defeat.”
So in a three-step plan, Gideon winnows the ranks. First he tells all that are fearful too leave. Still too many. Then he tells them to follow him to the river bank ; those who don’t are cast out. Still too many. Finally Gideon tells the men to lap up the water from the river and those who lap with their hands as opposed to those who must kneel down, are chosen.
It is thought that those who lapping or cupping their hands, would be more adaptable to the toils of war than those who must use their whole body to bend down and get water, so the choice of choosing the lappers is based not on just number but physical ability to withstand the rigours of battle.
” And the LORD said unto Gideon, By the three hundred men that lapped will I save you, and deliver the Midianites into thine hand: and let all the other people go every man unto his place.” (judge 7:7)
They are ready.
In my anguish... 