Judges 6:39

Then Gideon said to God, "Do not be angry with me; let me speak one more time. Please allow me one more test with the fleece. This time let it be dry, and the ground covered with dew."

Study Bible

Then Gideon said to God
This phrase highlights Gideon's direct communication with God, a privilege and responsibility that underscores the personal relationship between the divine and humanity. In the Hebrew context, the name "Gideon" means "hewer" or "one who cuts down," which is symbolic of his role in cutting down the oppression of the Midianites. This direct address to God reflects the intimate and covenantal relationship that the Israelites had with Yahweh, where even a judge like Gideon could converse with the Almighty.

Do not be angry with me
Here, Gideon expresses a deep awareness of God's holiness and his own unworthiness. The Hebrew word for "angry" is "anaph," which conveys a sense of righteous indignation. Gideon's plea is reminiscent of Abraham's intercession for Sodom (Genesis 18), where he also approached God with humility and reverence. This phrase reflects a profound understanding of God's character as both just and merciful.

let me speak just once more
This request shows Gideon's hesitance and need for reassurance. The phrase "just once more" indicates a limitation, a boundary that Gideon sets for himself, acknowledging that he should not test God's patience. It reflects the human tendency to seek confirmation of God's will, even when it has been clearly revealed. This mirrors the human condition of doubt and the need for divine patience.

Please allow me one more test with the fleece
The "fleece" is a symbol of Gideon's need for confirmation. In ancient Israel, fleece was a common material, and its use here is both practical and symbolic. The "test" signifies Gideon's desire for a sign, a tangible proof of God's promise. This reflects the biblical theme of seeking signs, as seen in other scriptures where God provides signs to confirm His word (e.g., Moses and the burning bush).

This time, let it be dry
Gideon's request for the fleece to be dry while the ground is wet is a reversal of the previous sign. This reversal signifies a deeper level of trust and understanding. The dryness of the fleece amidst dew-covered ground would be an unmistakable sign of divine intervention. In the Hebrew context, dew is often seen as a blessing from God, symbolizing His provision and presence.

and the ground be covered with dew
The "ground" being "covered with dew" is a natural phenomenon, yet in this context, it serves as a supernatural sign. Dew in the Bible often symbolizes God's favor and blessing (Deuteronomy 33:28). The contrast between the dry fleece and the dew-laden ground serves as a powerful testament to God's ability to control nature and affirm His promises. This phrase encapsulates the miraculous nature of God's signs and His willingness to meet His people in their doubts.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. God
The sovereign deity of Israel, who communicates with Gideon and demonstrates patience and understanding towards Gideon's requests for signs.

3. The Fleece Test
An event where Gideon seeks confirmation from God through a miraculous sign involving a fleece and dew, demonstrating his need for assurance of God's will.

4. Midianites
The oppressive force against Israel during Gideon's time, whom God intends to defeat through Gideon's leadership.

5. Israel
The nation chosen by God, experiencing a cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance during the time of the Judges.

Teaching Points

God's Patience with Our Doubts
God understands human frailty and is patient with our need for reassurance. Gideon's request for a second sign shows that God is willing to meet us where we are in our faith journey.

Seeking Confirmation in Faith
While seeking signs should not replace faith, there are times when God graciously provides confirmation to strengthen our resolve and trust in His plans.

The Importance of Obedience
Despite his doubts, Gideon ultimately obeys God's command. Our faith journey should lead us to action, trusting in God's promises and guidance.

God's Sovereignty and Power
The miraculous nature of the fleece test underscores God's control over creation and His ability to intervene in the natural order to fulfill His purposes.

Growth in Faith
Gideon's account encourages believers to grow in faith, moving from doubt to trust, and recognizing that God equips those He calls.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Gideon's request for a sign reflect his relationship with God, and what does it teach us about handling our own doubts?

2. In what ways can we seek confirmation from God today, and how can we ensure that our requests align with His will?

3. Compare Gideon's need for reassurance with other biblical figures who doubted. What common themes emerge, and how do they apply to our lives?

4. How does God's response to Gideon's request for a sign demonstrate His character, and what can we learn about His nature from this interaction?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt uncertain about God's direction in your life. How did you seek His guidance, and what was the outcome? How can Gideon's account encourage you in similar situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 4
Similar to Gideon, Moses also expressed doubt and sought signs from God to confirm his calling to lead Israel out of Egypt.

1 Kings 18
Elijah's challenge to the prophets of Baal, where God responds with fire, is another instance of God providing a sign to affirm His power and presence.

Matthew 14
Peter walking on water towards Jesus, where Peter's doubt and need for reassurance mirror Gideon's request for signs.