A Line in The Sand
A Line in The Sand
Judges 7:2-3
The LORD said to Gideon, “The people with you are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hand, lest Israel boast over me, saying, ‘My own hand has saved me.’ Now therefore proclaim in the ears of the people, saying, ‘Whoever is fearful and trembling, let him return home and hurry away from Mount Gilead.’” Then 22,000 of the people returned, and 10,000 remained.
Did you ever watch the classic Davy Crockett film with Fess Parker as the lead? My twin brother and I loved that movie growing up and must’ve watched it a hundred times. One pivotal scene came back to mind—as I read Judges 7:2-3—that takes place on the eve of the battle against Santa Anna at the Alamo. One commanding officer steps forward before the men, explains the peril of their situation, draws a line in the sand, and invites any man who wants to fight to cross the line. And every man crossed over.
I don’t want to overlook the range of human emotions that must’ve swept through the camp on this night, nor the enormity of this crucible of faith God is currently placing Gideon in. Gideon draws a line in the sand with his sword and bids them cross, but this moment doesn’t play out like that scene in the classic Disney film. In this scene, only 10,000 men cross the line, and 20,000 men pack their bags in retreat. Can you imagine the wave of disheartenment that must’ve swept through the camp at this sight, friend? Can’t you hear the arguments that must’ve broken out between brothers and neighbors, even fathers and sons? I bet the word “coward” got thrown out a lot that night, followed up by “you’ll be dead by dawn—this is a losing battle” and the like. Even if all 32,000 men are godly men, they’re still fallen and prone to anger and fear and consternation. And you can bet that Gideon isn’t off in the shadows smiling with delight as he watches 20,000 men slip away. Oh no—he’s looking for the nearest fleece.
Friend, 20,000 fearful men in Israel need to learn that Midian is no match for God, and 10,000 self-confident men need to learn that they can’t win the battles on their own. But both are in for a great awakening.