32 How much more do I need to say? It would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and all the prophets. 33 By faith these people overthrew kingdoms, ruled with justice, and received what God had promised them. …Their weakness was turned to strength. They became strong in battle and put whole armies to flight.
Hebrews 11:32-34 (NLT)
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The writer continues his chronological highlight of heroes of faith. How well do you know the Old Testament? Surely you’ve heard of David, Samson and Gideon, and possibly Samuel. What about Jepthah, Barak and the prophets? I’m surprised that some, like Samson, made the list. Why? Their weakness, by faith, was turned to strength.
Judges
Gideon, Barak, Samson and Jeptha were judges in Israel in the time between their early conquest of Cannan and the first king, Saul. It was a roller coaster ride of Israel’s obedience to and rejection of the Lord. They disobeyed and followed other gods. God sent judgement as discipline. They suffered and repented. God then sent a deliverer (a judge) to rescue them.They got freedom and followed God…for a while. Almost sounds like my life!
A little more detail
Gideon (Judges 6-8) demonstrated that though he was weak, by God, through faith, was made strong. He overthrew the Midian army of over 100,000 men with just 300. Barak (Judges 4), along with Deborah the judge, rose up against the army of Canaan and defeated them. Samson became physically strong beyond that of a natural man and defeated the Philistines (Judges 13-16). Jephtha was the son of a prostitute and rejected by his family. He led a tribe of Israel to defeat the Ammonites (Judges 11-12).
Kings and prophets
Samuel was the famous priest/prophet of miracle birth and calling (1 Samuel 1, 3). He was a man of faith and had a close relationship with the Lord. He anointed David as King (1 Samuel 16). David, by far the most famous king of Israel was the youngest in the family and overlooked yet God selected him. We know David, as a young, inexperienced boy, fought Goliath. He also conquered many of the nations around Israel and established the Jewish kingdom. He was “a man after God’s own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14).
Conclusion
What are your weaknesses? Trust God to change them to strengths to do His will.
