Is Victory from God or Man's Hand? Navigating Biblical Contradictions
In this article, you will learn how Judges 7:14 contradicts Proverbs 21:31, 1 Samuel 17:47, Jeremiah 9:23-24, Deuteronomy 20:1-4 and Psalm 44:6-7. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The Bible, a revered text, offers profound insights into the nature of divine intervention and human effort. Yet, sometimes, its narratives appear contradictory, leading to thought-provoking discourse. One such discussion arises from comparing the story of Gideon with other Biblical teachings about victory and divine assistance.
Judges 7:14 portrays a scene where Gideon's victory is prophesied, suggesting that his actions would lead to triumph over formidable enemies. This can be seen as an assertion of human agency, where Gideon's strategic prowess plays a crucial role in securing success. However, when placed alongside other Biblical verses, a different picture emerges.
Proverbs 21:31 reminds us that safety and victory truly belong to the Lord, subtly suggesting that human plans or preparations are, ultimately, secondary. Similarly, 1 Samuel 17:47 emphasizes that "the battle is the Lord's," proposing that divine will can override human efforts and strategies.
In another reflective passage, Jeremiah 9:23-24 advises against boasting of might or strength. It emphasizes glorying in understanding and knowing God, which contrasts with the apparent attribution of victory to Gideon himself. Meanwhile, Deuteronomy 20:1-4 encourages not fearing adversaries, for God Himself fights for His people, reinforcing the idea of divine intervention over individual effort.
Psalm 44:6-7 further cements this notion, as the psalmist recounts reliance not on their weapons, but on God's saving power. This resonates as a poignant reminder that victory, in its truest sense, stems from divine aid rather than human actions.
These diverse perspectives highlight a spiritual tension within scripture: Is success a result of man's deeds, divine will, or a fusion of both? Much like a gifted musician mastering their craft but attributing the music's beauty to inspiration, the Biblical texts encourage believers to ponder the balance between divine providence and human endeavor.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Judges 7:14 | And his fellow answered and said, This [is] nothing else save the sword of Gideon the son of Joash, a man of Israel: [for] into his hand hath God delivered Midian, and all the host. |
| 2. | Proverbs 21:31 | The horse [is] prepared against the day of battle: but safety [is] of the LORD. [safety: or, victory] |
| 3. | 1 Samuel 17:47 | And all this assembly shall know that the LORD saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle [is] the LORD'S, and he will give you into our hands. |
| 4. | Jeremiah 9:23-24 | Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise [man] glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty [man] glory in his might, let not the rich [man] glory in his riches: |
| 5. | Deuteronomy 20:1-4 | When thou goest out to battle against thine enemies, and seest horses, and chariots, [and] a people more than thou, be not afraid of them: for the LORD thy God [is] with thee, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt. |
| 6. | Psalm 44:6-7 | For I will not trust in my bow, neither shall my sword save me. |