Ebed-melech's courage: today's inspiration?
How does Ebed-melech's courage in Jeremiah 38:7 inspire us to act today?

A Moment of Crisis: Jeremiah 38:7

“Now Ebed-melech the Cushite, a eunuch in the king’s house, heard that they had put Jeremiah into the cistern—while the king was sitting in the Gate of Benjamin—”


Why This Act Stands Out

• Outsider status – a foreign eunuch, socially powerless

• Immediate empathy – he “heard” and instantly cared

• Risk assumed – approached a fearful king who had just allowed Jeremiah’s persecution

• Action, not talk – led a rescue team, provided ropes and padding (Jeremiah 38:11–13)

• Faith rewarded – God later promised, “Because you have trusted in Me… your life will be a prize to you” (Jeremiah 39:18)


Timeless Lessons for Us

• Speak when truth is trampled (Proverbs 31:8-9; Acts 5:29)

• Measure courage by obedience, not by acceptance (Galatians 1:10)

• Compassion details matter—soft rags on the ropes show dignity (James 1:27)

• God notices every quiet defender of His word (Hebrews 6:10)


Cultivating Ebed-melech-Style Courage Today

1. Stay Scripture-saturated so right and wrong are clear (Psalm 119:11)

2. Fear God more than people—eternal reward outweighs earthly risk (Matthew 10:28)

3. Use your position, however humble, to protect the vulnerable (Hebrews 13:3)

4. Act promptly; delays embolden evil (Ephesians 5:16)

5. Trust God for outcomes; He alone secures our “prize” (Jeremiah 39:18; 2 Timothy 4:8)


God’s Assurance to the Courageous

Ebed-melech walked into danger and walked out with a promise. The same Lord still says, “Those who honor Me I will honor” (1 Samuel 2:30). Step forward; He sees.

What is the meaning of Jeremiah 38:7?
Top of Page
Top of Page