Today's first reading gives the background for the rise of Gideon. The Hebrews had fallen under control of Midian, but then God called upon Gideon to become a warrior to defeat the Midianites.
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Reading the Bible in Its Entirety
The second selection tells the miraculous (and bloody) account of the battle, where Gideon led 300 men against the Midianite camp. With swords and trumpets, the Hebrews routed the Midianite army, who fled in panic.
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If you are planning to read the Bible in its entirety, you should read Judges 5-8 today.
