JEHOVAH SHALOM SIFTS THE ARMY

In Hebrew, the word “Shalom” is a great word. It appears about 250 times in the Bible. In Greek, the same word in translated “Irene”. This word means peace, but it is more than the absence of war. It means salvation, justice, maturity, wealth, health, love, favor, friends (fellowship, community), perfection, wholeness, unity of the Spirit, and harmony between parts. Shalom belongs to the Garden of Eden. It means living a life as God’s created us to be. It means loving God and man. We are not created to live in poverty, oppression or sickness. God wants us to enjoy the fruits of His creation and the fruits of our labor. In doing that we bring glory to Him alone! Shalom! Glory!

God confirms to Gideon that He was chosen to lead Isreal to victory. God reduces the army of Isreal from 32,000 to 300 men (Judges 7:1-8). The Midianites are 135 thousand. The reduction is a call to Humility and Faith. God’s ways are higher than ours. He often works through our weaknesses. God desires His people to rely on Him for provision and guidance rather than their own strength or resources. We must seek His wisdom and follow His lead, even when it seems strange to our human understanding. The primary purpose of all God’s actions is His glory. We must give credit to God for our victories and successes, acknowledging His hand in our lives. God brings them to a pool fed by spring of Harod. The name “Harod” means “fear or trembling,” possibly foreshadowing the fear that would later grip the Midianites.

FEAR IS AN ENEMY TO FAITH

Fear is defined as an unpleasant, often strong emotion caused by an awareness of danger. Fear starts with anxiety, and it manifests as loss of courage and strength. Fear leads to a strong desire to run away or to fight back. Physically, fear manifests as feeling cold, dizzy, fainting, shortness of breath, feeling choked, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, sweating, or trembling. Psychologically, people who are afraid feel overwhelmed, angry, losing control and dying. These are some triggers that produce fear: snakes, darkness, heights, flying, crowds of people, rejection, negative imaginations and death. Most people scream when they are afraid.

Spiritually, fear is an evil spirit. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2Tim 1:7).

Fear is not from God. Its root comes from doubting God’s Word. Fear destroys the faith, the love, the peace and the courage to stand for God. The spirit of fear can manifest as fear of man’s rejection or intimidation. As believers, we must stand and boldly proclaim the Gospel.

*By His Spirit, God gives the power to witness and to overcome the trials of life successfully. God gives us the power that is stronger than fear. This power strengthens us inwardly and helps us turn weakness into divine strength.

*God gives us Love to balance the power. Without Love, power becomes oppressive. Every act, no matter how great, without love, is nothing (1Cor 13). Love is from God. It is stronger than fear. It is the magnet God uses to attract people to Jesus. “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love” (1Jn 4:18). Love manifests as sacrificially serving others and covering a multitude of sins by offering forgiveness and peace (1Pet 4:8).

*God gives us “a sound mind” or self-control. Like Love, this is also one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit in the believer. It means discipline over your thoughts, emotions and actions, staying calm and making wise decisions during crisis. It gives the power to resist temptations, maintain integrity, reflecting the character of Christ. Self-control restrains the believer from making shameful decisions that will damage his testimony. It also helps the believer to detect the devil’s schemes. It is essential for effective leadership and spiritual warfare.

“The officers shall speak further to the people, and say, ‘What man is there who is fearful and fainthearted? Let him go and return to his house, lest the heart of his brethren faint like his heart” (Deut 20:8).

In ancient Israel, the role of officers was crucial in maintaining order and morale among the troops. These officers were responsible for communicating God’s laws and instructions to the people, ensuring that the army was spiritually and mentally prepared for battle. To be fainthearted means to be emotionally soft, oversensitive. Fear and faintheartedness were significant concerns in ancient warfare, where morale could determine the outcome of a battle. This shows the human tendency towards fear, especially in the face of conflict. It reflects a compassionate understanding of human nature, recognizing that not everyone is suited for the rigors of battle. The Bible often addresses fear, encouraging believers to trust in God. Courage and faith in God are essential qualities for those who fight battles. The provision for the fearful to return home serves multiple purposes. It ensures that the army is composed of willing and courageous individuals, which is crucial for maintaining high morale. It prevents the spread of fear among the troops, which could lead to panic and defeat. This shows God’s understanding and mercy, allowing men to prioritize their personal well-being and family responsibilities over military duty. It also shows the value placed on the individual and the community. Fear is like a virus. It is very contagious. It weakens men and communities. Fear is an internal traitor. It should not be tolerated. The unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace in the family, congregation, or the army is vital to progress and success. God desires a committed and faithful remnant.

“Now therefore, proclaim in the hearing of the people, saying, ‘Whoever is fearful and afraid, let him turn and depart at once from Mount Gilead.’ ” And twenty-two thousand of the people returned, and ten thousand remained” (Jdg 7:3). This command is given by God to Gideon. God often communicates His will through chosen leaders, as seen with Moses and Joshua. All the fearful soldiers should go home. Only those who are courageous can stay. God does not shame honest fear. The coward is not punished but given grace to be released. God protects the army and the community from the effects of fear. The large number of men who leave shows man’s tendency towards fear and self-preservation. God often works through a faithful few rather than a multitude, as seen with Noah, Abraham, and the early church. God demonstrates His power and glory through a smaller, more dedicated group of people. God’s reduction of the army shows that He is totally in control. Fear is an enemy to Faith, Peace, Love, Sound-mind, Strength and Courage. Gideon does not grumble. He cooperates with God’s plan even when he does not understand it. He is a good example of a godly leader.

ONLY THE LAPPERS GO TO BATTLE

God is a Tester and a Purifier. He is sovereign in choosing His servants for any assignment. Victory comes not by human strength but by divine power. Jonathan said: “There is nothing to prevent the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few” (1Sam 14:6). Jesus said that God’s power is made perfect in human weakness (2Cor 12:9). The water is the place for sifting and testing. By faith, the Israelites crossed over the Red Sea, but the Egyptians drowned in it. Faith in God must be tested and purified by fire in trials to give God the glory (1Pet 1:7). God speaks directly to Gideon. He totally obeyed God. As an obedient servant, Gideon is a picture of Jesus. This is always the pattern: God speaks and leads. His people must follow. By His divine choice, God excludes some people from participating in some assignments. Jesus prayed before choosing His apostles. Success in God’s kingdom is not determined by numbers or human strength but by faith and obedience to His commands. God’s ways are higher than our ways (Isa 55:8,9). Glory to God!

“Separate those who lap the water with their tongues like a dog”. This unconventional instruction is a divine test to distinguish between the men. No prior command was given about how to drink water. God tested their instincts for battle. Lapping water like a dog suggests vigilance and readiness. These men remained alert to their surroundings while drinking. Kneeling to drink indicates a lack of readiness and awareness, being vulnerable to surprise attacks. God tests His people to prepare them for greater tasks. Gideon’s actions demonstrate that faith requires action. Be ready to act on God’s instructions, trusting in His plan and provision, even when you don’t understand it.

There are two ways to Drink, and two kinds of Soldiers! Those men who lapped stayed on their feet or at most crouched; brought water to their mouths with cupped hands; Kept eyes up, weapons ready, alert to danger. Those who knelt dropped to both knees; Lowered heads to the river; Became momentarily oblivious to their surroundings; dropped their weapons. Only the 300 lappers were kept to fight the battle!

GOD’S WAYS IN CHOOSING HIS SOLDIERS AND SERVANTS:

God chooses those who are alert, spiritually watchful and positionally vigilant. God rewards those who are ready to obey Him immediately. They are attentive to possible dangers. These people are mentally quick and prepared to deal with emergencies. Also, they take advantage of sudden opportunities. They quickly believe prophetic words and act on them. The opposite of being alert is to be sleepy, tired, careless, distracted, and unprepared. God values those who can drink in His provision without losing sight of the enemy’s schemes. They practice self-discipline even amid God’s blessings. David attacked and defeated the Amalekites because they were not aware of the danger. They celebrated their victory by eating, drinking and dancing (1Sam 30:16). Lesson: Every action, even the way we eat or drink water, displays our character. God rewards those who practice moderation even when nobody is watching but Him. “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1Cor 10:31). Selah!

LESSONS:

*Vigilance is a constant call! Gideon’s Lappers never set aside their weapons; they were already prepared to move. Believers are told to “be ready in season and out of season” (2Tim 4:2). As you obey God, you will lose your careless friends along the way. Don’t be discouraged.  Be willing to walk alone or be in minority if need be. 300 out of 10,000 is about 3%. God works through a faithful remnant (Isa 10:22). Jesus said: “Keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come… watch and pray” (Matt 24:42; 26:41)

*Be quick to act on God’s next command, not paralyzed by human calculations. Obedience positions us to receive God’s power!

*Cultivate habits that keep you spiritually alert: Study God’s Word and pray daily. Practice self-examination. Submit to your leaders.

*Practice discipline and self-control in small choices, how you use time, money, words, knowing that God sees and weighs them.

*Accept God’s testing and sifting seasons; let them refine you. Do not resent them.

*Stay “battle-ready” by wearing the full armor of God daily (Eph 6:10–18).

*God’s servants and leaders are chosen not by great numbers or outward talent but by inward qualities revealed in ordinary moments.

*God still watches how we “drink” today—and still calls the alert and disciplined to accomplish His purposes on earth!

*God exposes fear early, before the battle intensifies. Fear is an internal enemy. Fear leads to backsliding.

*Acknowledge your fears and anxieties. Do not deceive yourself and others. The soldiers stepped out!

*Fear disqualifies us from leadership and the frontline of spiritual warfare.

*Only those trusting God fully (faith 100%) experience victory firsthand and make rapid progress!

*In the New Testament, Jesus says that we should count the cost of discipleship (Luke 14:25-33). Selah!

*Study God’s Word daily and pray. As Faith and Love increase, fear decreases. Draw closer to mature mentors and courageous believers.

*Always obey God. Every step of obedience, no matter how little, will destroy fear and increase your faith and courage.

*Expect God to turn things upside down, to change your weakness into victories!

*God is the greatest encourager: “Do not fear, for I am with you… I will strengthen you” (Isa 41:10).

*God is sovereign, faithful, omnipotent! He never loses any battle. “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Rom 8:31).

*God often reduces our visible resources so that His deliverance is clear. He desires His glory and our dependence, not our self-confidence.

*The 300 men that God picked for the battle were chosen not because they were physically stronger but were fearless and alert like dogs!

*Fear will cripple you if you submit to it!

*Modern “Midianites”: great financial needs; a terrible diagnosis; a vision bigger than the budget; family crises with no human solution.

*Fear not the day of small things, fewer friends, less money, or limited strength. These are platforms for God’s miracles.

*Remember and Share your past testimonies! David recounted his victory over the lion and the bear before he defeated Goliath (1Sam 17)

*Pray with thanksgiving, before and after the battle! Worship the Lord!