NOTES for Jdg 6:1-23
Once again, the people's own actions brought disaster upon their heads. This time, after pointing out that the Midianite invasion had been provoked by the apostasy of those who now suffered, the Lord calls one of their own sons to save the oppressed people. Gideon is called at the very moment when he acknowledges that the Lord has abandoned him. Yet this acknowledgment seems equivalent to repentance voiced on behalf of the whole people, and it is therefore precisely in repentance that Gideon is able to receive strength from the Lord. Once again, and not for the last time, God's power is made perfect in weakness, and this is underscored by the calling of the youngest member of the poorest clan.
When Gideon sees the Angel, he is afraid. Yet once again the Lord speaks His simple words, repeated many times in the Bible: “Do not be afraid.” These words help us understand what the fear of God is: a fear that heals us of every other fear.