The way that God whittled down Gideon’s army was far from random. First, He had Gideon send home all who were afraid. Fear is a deadly virus that can sweep through an army and destroy it before a single soldier steps onto the battlefield. Then, it seems that God further narrowed down the army based on who was wiser when it came to drinking water. The remaining force of 300 men may have been small in number, but they were the bravest and wisest of Israel’s army.

In much the same way, God has chosen “armies” for each of us – fellow believers to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with us in life, no matter what may come our way. Who is in your army? Perhaps it is a parent, who has modeled the humble, sacrificial love of Christ. Perhaps it is a longtime friend who has shown you what faithfulness looks like. Perhaps it is the teacher or pastor who has demonstrated how important it is to understand and live out the Gospel.

God chose Gideon’s army; He chose yours, too. And just like Gideon’s, He knew exactly whom you needed to go into battle with and speak strength into your heart.

Whom has God placed into your life as your army? When was the last time you thanked Him for them? When was the last time you thanked them for standing faithfully by you?