"The officers shall speak further to the people, and say, “What man is there who is fearful and faint hearted? Let him go and return to his house, lest the heart of his brethren faint like his heart." Duet. 20:8 NKJ

There were four exemptions from military service in Israel's all volunteer army: 1) A man who had just built a new house and had yet to dedicate it, 2) A man who had planted a vineyard and not yet eaten of its fruit, 3) A man engaged, but not yet married, and 4) a man who was fearful and faint-hearted. In warfare the mind must be on the battle, not be preoccupied with other matters. This last exemption was most important of all. Men who were fearful and faint-hearted would break down the unity, morale, and effectiveness of the men around them. The Old Testament is replete with instructions for Israel's fighting men to take courage and "be strong in the Lord and the power of His might." The same holds true for us today.