What role does faith play in the events described in Judges 3:18? Setting the Scene • Israel has been under Moabite oppression for eighteen years (Judges 3:12–14). • God raises up Ehud, “a left-handed man” (Judges 3:15), to bring deliverance. • Judges 3:18: “After Ehud had finished presenting the tribute, he sent away the people who had carried it.” • At first glance, the verse seems like a mere transition, yet it quietly showcases how faith directs Ehud’s every move. Faith Expressed Through Obedient Initiative • God had already stirred Ehud’s heart to act (Judges 3:15). • Rather than wait for a dramatic sign, Ehud steps forward, confident that the Lord will empower him—mirroring Jonathan’s conviction: “Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few” (1 Samuel 14:6). • His presentation of tribute is not compromise; it is a strategic act of obedience, trusting God to open the door for deliverance. Faith that Releases Others • Ehud “sent away the people who had carried it.” – He shields his companions from danger, believing God will work through him alone. – This echoes Jesus’ principle: “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). • Faith enables self-sacrifice; Ehud’s confidence in God frees him to bear the risk personally. Faith that Relies on God’s Sovereign Timing • By dismissing the tribute-bearers, Ehud ensures privacy with Eglon—essential for the upcoming act (Judges 3:19–21). • He trusts God’s orchestration of circumstances, much like Nehemiah waited for the “right moment” before speaking to the king (Nehemiah 2:1–6). • Faith does not rush or lag; it moves in step with God-appointed timing. Faith that Works Through Seeming Weakness • A lone, left-handed Israelite appears insignificant before a powerful king. • Yet God often chooses what the world calls weak to shame the strong (1 Corinthians 1:27). • Ehud’s unusual left-handedness positions his dagger where guards won’t expect it (Judges 3:16). Faith accepts one’s God-given uniqueness as an instrument for His purposes. Takeaways for Today • Genuine faith is active, not passive—it plans, moves, and trusts God with the outcome (James 2:17). • Faith prioritizes others’ safety and well-being, willingly absorbing risk for their good. • Faith discerns God’s timing, waiting or acting as He leads, confident that each step fits into His larger plan (Proverbs 3:5–6). • Faith embraces personal limitations, knowing God’s power is perfected in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). |
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