Judges 6:14 - Yahweh looked at him, and said, “Go in this your might, and save Israel from the hand of Midian. Haven’t I sent you?”

Generated Verse: Judges 6:14

What does "Judges 6:14" mean?


This verse is a pivotal moment in the story of Gideon, and it's packed with meaning. Let's break it down:

"Yahweh looked at him...": This is more than just a casual glance. It implies a focused, powerful gaze that sees beyond Gideon's outward appearance (likely fearful and insignificant at this point) and into his potential. It's a gaze of divine understanding and intention.

"...and said, 'Go in this your might...'": This is where it gets interesting. Gideon, at this point, is hiding in a winepress, threshing wheat in secret to avoid the Midianites (Judges 6:11). He's feeling weak, insignificant, and questioning God's presence. So, when God tells him to "go in this your might," it can be interpreted in a few ways:

Potential he doesn't see: God is seeing potential in Gideon that Gideon himself doesn't recognize. This might refer to a hidden strength, courage, resourcefulness, or even just his lineage (being from the tribe of Manasseh). It's a call to action, urging him to embrace the strength God sees within him.

The power of the call itself: The very act of God speaking to him is a source of empowerment. The command is a gift of strength. It's a declaration that he is now equipped and authorized to act.

The immediate situation: Some scholars suggest "this might" could even refer to Gideon's current skills and resources, as meager as they seem. It's a reminder that God often uses the little we have to accomplish great things.

"...and save Israel from the hand of Midian.": This is the mission. The Midianites were oppressing the Israelites, raiding their crops and livestock, leaving them in poverty and fear. Gideon is being commissioned to deliver his people from this oppression.

"Haven't I sent you?'": This is a powerful affirmation. It's God's seal of approval and assurance that Gideon is not acting on his own initiative, but by divine authority. It silences any potential objections or doubts Gideon might have. The unspoken implication is, "Therefore, I will be with you."

Overall Meaning:

This verse is a declaration of God's choice of an unlikely leader, Gideon, to deliver Israel. It emphasizes:

God's Perspective: God sees potential and strength in people that they may not see in themselves.
Divine Empowerment: The call of God itself is a source of strength and authority.
The Importance of Obedience: Gideon is being commanded to act, even though it seems impossible.
God's Sovereignty: God is the one who is ultimately acting through Gideon, using him as an instrument to accomplish His purposes.
Divine reassurance: God reminds Gideon that it is God who is sending him, not Gideon who has come up with the plan.

In essence, this verse is a powerful example of God using ordinary people to do extraordinary things when they are willing to obey His call. It's a reminder that true strength comes not from ourselves, but from God.