This verse shows how God reassures and fortifies those who trust in Him, giving them the faith they need to take action.
“and you will hear what they say; and afterward your hands will be strengthened that you may go down against the camp.” So he went with Purah his servant down to the outposts of the army that was in the camp. (v.11) In this verse, Gideon, one of the judges of Israel who lived around the 12th-11th century BC, follows the LORD’s instructions to approach the Midianite encampment. Gideon had been hesitant to engage in battle, fearful of the enemy’s overwhelming numbers. But God, aware of Gideon’s doubts, orchestrates a plan for Gideon to overhear a dream recounted by one of the Midianite soldiers. By doing so, Gideon is reassured that victory is assured by God’s power rather than by the strength of his limited forces. The text shows God’s willingness to strengthen the faith of those He calls into service, reminding believers that the LORD Himself confirms His plans through circumstances and messages that encourage and embolden (Romans 8:31).
“and afterward your hands will be strengthened…” (v.11) carries the implication that Gideon’s confidence needed a final boost, which God graciously provided through evidence of the enemies’ fear. Gideon’s location at this moment was near the Midianite camp, a threatening place in the region of the Jezreel Valley in northern Israel. This valley, flanked by the hills of Moreh and Gilboa, has historically been the site of many biblical battles because of its strategic significance. For Gideon, journeying down with his servant Purah was an exercise in trust—he physically moved closer to danger while spiritually moving closer to the assurance God had promised him.
“…that you may go down against the camp.” So he went… (v.11) demonstrates Gideon’s obedience even in uncertainty. This act of courage speaks to a truth echoed in the New Testament, where steps of faith often precede the full revelation of God’s provision (John 14:1). Like Peter stepping out of the boat to meet Jesus on the water, Gideon steps into a potentially perilous situation based on God’s word. The verse underscores how God patiently affirms His plans through faith-building encounters, ensuring His servants can proceed with confidence rather than fear.
Set to dark mode
Judges 7:11 meaning
“and you will hear what they say; and afterward your hands will be strengthened that you may go down against the camp.” So he went with Purah his servant down to the outposts of the army that was in the camp. (v.11) In this verse, Gideon, one of the judges of Israel who lived around the 12th-11th century BC, follows the LORD’s instructions to approach the Midianite encampment. Gideon had been hesitant to engage in battle, fearful of the enemy’s overwhelming numbers. But God, aware of Gideon’s doubts, orchestrates a plan for Gideon to overhear a dream recounted by one of the Midianite soldiers. By doing so, Gideon is reassured that victory is assured by God’s power rather than by the strength of his limited forces. The text shows God’s willingness to strengthen the faith of those He calls into service, reminding believers that the LORD Himself confirms His plans through circumstances and messages that encourage and embolden (Romans 8:31).
“and afterward your hands will be strengthened…” (v.11) carries the implication that Gideon’s confidence needed a final boost, which God graciously provided through evidence of the enemies’ fear. Gideon’s location at this moment was near the Midianite camp, a threatening place in the region of the Jezreel Valley in northern Israel. This valley, flanked by the hills of Moreh and Gilboa, has historically been the site of many biblical battles because of its strategic significance. For Gideon, journeying down with his servant Purah was an exercise in trust—he physically moved closer to danger while spiritually moving closer to the assurance God had promised him.
“…that you may go down against the camp.” So he went… (v.11) demonstrates Gideon’s obedience even in uncertainty. This act of courage speaks to a truth echoed in the New Testament, where steps of faith often precede the full revelation of God’s provision (John 14:1). Like Peter stepping out of the boat to meet Jesus on the water, Gideon steps into a potentially perilous situation based on God’s word. The verse underscores how God patiently affirms His plans through faith-building encounters, ensuring His servants can proceed with confidence rather than fear.