Judges 6:38

And that is what happened. When Gideon arose the next morning, he squeezed the fleece and wrung out the dew--a bowlful of water.

Study Bible

And that is what happened
This phrase underscores the certainty and reliability of God's response to Gideon's request. In Hebrew, the phrase reflects a narrative style that confirms the fulfillment of a divine promise or sign. It emphasizes God's faithfulness and the assurance that His word and actions are trustworthy. This is a reminder to believers that God is attentive to the cries of His people and responds in accordance with His will.

When Gideon rose early the next morning
The act of rising early signifies diligence and eagerness. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, rising early was often associated with a readiness to engage in important tasks. Gideon's early rising indicates his anticipation and perhaps anxiety about the sign he had requested from God. It reflects a heart that is earnestly seeking confirmation and guidance from the Lord.

he squeezed the fleece
The fleece, a piece of wool, serves as a tangible medium through which Gideon seeks confirmation from God. In the Hebrew context, fleece symbolizes purity and innocence, often associated with sacrificial offerings. By squeezing the fleece, Gideon is actively participating in the process of seeking God's will, demonstrating a blend of faith and action. This act can inspire believers to actively engage in their faith journey, seeking God's guidance with sincerity.

and wrung out the dew
Dew in the Bible often symbolizes divine blessing and favor. In a land where water was precious, dew was seen as a gift from God, sustaining life. The act of wringing out the dew signifies the abundance of God's response to Gideon's request. It highlights the overflowing nature of God's provision and assurance. For believers, this serves as a reminder of God's abundant grace and the richness of His blessings when we seek Him earnestly.

a bowlful of water
The bowlful of water represents the tangible evidence of God's response. In the ancient world, water was a symbol of life and purification. The abundance of water collected in the bowl signifies the completeness and sufficiency of God's answer to Gideon's test. It reassures believers of God's ability to provide clear and unmistakable signs of His presence and guidance in our lives. This phrase encourages Christians to trust in God's provision and to recognize His answers, even when they come in unexpected forms.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gideon
A judge of Israel, chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from the oppression of the Midianites. He is known for his initial hesitance and need for reassurance from God.

2. Fleece
A piece of wool used by Gideon as a sign to confirm God's promise. It symbolizes Gideon's request for a miraculous sign to bolster his faith.

3. Dew
Represents the miraculous sign from God. The presence of dew on the fleece while the ground remained dry was a divine confirmation for Gideon.

4. Midianites
The oppressors of Israel during Gideon's time. Their oppression led to the Israelites crying out to God for deliverance.

5. Israel
The nation chosen by God, often finding themselves in cycles of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance during the time of the Judges.

Teaching Points

Seeking Confirmation from God
Gideon's request for a sign shows that it is not wrong to seek confirmation from God when faced with significant decisions. However, it should be done with a heart of faith, not doubt.

God's Patience and Understanding
God understands our weaknesses and is patient with us, as seen in His willingness to provide Gideon with the sign he requested.

Faith in Action
While Gideon sought confirmation, he eventually acted on God's command. Our faith should lead to action, trusting in God's promises.

God's Sovereignty and Power
The miracle of the dew on the fleece demonstrates God's control over nature and His ability to intervene in our lives in miraculous ways.

The Importance of Obedience
Gideon's account reminds us that obedience to God's call is crucial, even when we feel inadequate or uncertain.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Gideon's request for a sign reveal about his character and his relationship with God?

2. How can we discern when it is appropriate to seek confirmation from God in our own lives?

3. In what ways does God's response to Gideon's request for a sign demonstrate His patience and understanding?

4. How can Gideon's account encourage us when we face situations that seem beyond our capabilities?

5. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that our faith leads to action, as demonstrated by Gideon?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 4
Like Gideon, Moses also sought signs from God to confirm his calling to lead Israel out of Egypt. This connection highlights the human need for reassurance when faced with daunting tasks.

1 Kings 18
Elijah's challenge to the prophets of Baal involved a test with water and fire, similar to Gideon's fleece test, demonstrating God's power and faithfulness.

Hebrews 11
Gideon is listed among the heroes of faith, showing that despite his initial doubts, he ultimately trusted in God's promises.