* It was time for Gideon to go to war.

* He had already passed the first test by tearing down his dad’s altar to Baal.

* vs 2-3 - But God needed to widdle down the army.

* He first dismissed the COWARDLY.

* vs 4-7 - God wanted to trim it down even further.

* He then dismissed the CARELESS.

* These men were not battle ready.

* Finally we’re left with the COURAGEOUS.

* vs 8 - the courageous collected provisions for the fight - weapons and food.

* Note - if you’re a coward or careless you can no longer fight the enemy nor can you be nourishment for yourself or others.