By Many or By Few   
 

by Irvin Himmel

 

The situation look grim. Saul's men had dwindled to only about six hundred. The army of the Philistines numbered into the thousands. Saul's men were poorly armed. Since all the smiths were among the Philistines, Saul's soldiers had neither sword nor spear. There was much trembling among the Israelites. Some were hiding in caves, thickets, rocks, pits, and other out of the way places. Some had fled to the region east of Jordan (1 Sam. 13). Jonathan, Saul's son, took his young armor bearer and approached the Philistine garrison. Saul was not informed of this movement. Jonathan said to the young man that bore his armor, "Come, and let us go over unto the garrison of these uncircumcised: it may be that the Lord will work for us: for there is no restraint to the Lord to save by many or by few" (1 Sam. 14:6). The faith that Jonathan had in God brought reward. Despite their being terribly outnumbered and poorly equipped to fight, the Israelites were given victory over the Philistines. God turned seeming defeat into certain triumph. Too often we suppose that we are defeated if outnumbered. Not so! God is able to save by many or by few. God can use a few faithful people to do great works in his sight. God is not swayed by numbers.         Other Articles by Irvin Himmel The Church at Work in Benevolence A Few Ominous Isms The Sufferings of Christ Prior to His Death Pearls From Proverbs - A Seeming Right Course Pearls in Proverbs: Glorying in Glory We Wait by Faith The Suffering of Jesus Prior to His Death Unity in the Church Maturity The Grace of God that Brings Salvation     For Past Auburn Beacons go to: www.aubeacon.com/Bulletins.htm   Anyone can join the mailing list for the Auburn Beacon! Send your request to: larryrouse@aubeacon.com