Judges 6:34

I see two possible interpretations here and I think both are probably true. First, the Holy Spirit is indwelling Gideon the same way a Christian is indwelt today at the moment of Salvation. This indwelling is itself an anointing of God that recognizes Gideon as being set apart for His purpose. I find it interesting that Gideon still doubted even after God personally visited to speak with, comfort, and motivate him. Gideon still doubted even after God proved Himself by consuming Gideon’s offering. And Gideon still doubted and asked for a sign even after the Holy Spirit had indwelt him. This is a heavy (and relatable) contrast to stories like Job and Joseph who never doubted no matter what circumstances arose. Which also reminds me of the story of Jonah who also experienced doubt and had to be righteously convinced to act.

Second, the more literal interpretation of the LORD’s spirit coming upon Gideon as ‘clothing’ points to Isaiah’s prophetic writings where God is depicted as a warrior putting on armor (Isaiah 59:17). It may have been a source of inspiration for Paul who later wrote of Christians putting on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:13) in preparation for spiritual warfare. The armor serves as assurance of victory just as it did for Gideon.

Judges 6:34