Silver trumpets sounded an alarm for war (Num. 31:6) and accompanied sacrifices (Num. 10:9-10). The passage illustrates the church’s intercession.

The alarms probably gave battle orders to the fighters, keeping them united and coordinated, but they had a more important function—they signaled to God.

Israel did not win battles by military prowess or overwhelming numbers; most of the time she had neither. Israel’s victories depended on alignment with God. When Joshua met the commander of the Lord’s host, Joshua asked him, “Are you for us or for our adversaries?” His answer was simple: “No … I come as captain of the host of the Lord” (Josh. 5:13-15). God doesn’t take our side—we must take His side! Israel won when she fought according to God’s will and aligned with His ways. When that happened God did military miracles.

The trumpets also functioned during sacrifices “as a reminder of you before your God”. God didn’t have a short memory, rather the trumpet appealed to His covenant with His people. When Israel was faithful to her part of the covenant and maintained her relationship to God through the sacrificial system, God did His part. He never forsakes His people, but His blessings flow freely when we live in a way that pleases Him. When we act like His people, He treats us like His people. Otherwise, He shows His love with a little discipline!

Jesus taught similar things about prayer. Father knows what we need before we ask, he doesn’t depend on us to point it out, but asking is part of a humble relationship (Matt. 6:8; 7:11). Petitions made in Jesus’ name (consistent with His character and purposes) receive answers (1 John 5:14-15). When we present a united front in prayer, we can expect to be heard (Matt. 18:19-20).

The trumpet signals God to answer His people’s prayers.