What can we learn from Ehud's courage in Judges 3:16? Setting the Scene Israel had again drifted into idolatry and fallen under the harsh rule of Moab’s King Eglon. The people cried out for help, and the LORD raised up Ehud—a man from the tribe of Benjamin, noted for being left-handed—to deliver them. Verse Focus: Judges 3:16 “Now Ehud had made himself a double-edged sword about a cubit long, which he strapped to his right thigh under his clothing.” Key Observations about Ehud’s Courage • Personal initiative: Ehud “made himself” the weapon—he did not wait for others to equip him. • Strategic thinking: A double-edged, one-cubit blade could be hidden and still lethal. • Purposeful concealment: Strapping the sword to his right thigh took advantage of the guards’ expectation that weapons were drawn from the left side. • Risk embraced: Entering Eglon’s inner chamber alone meant no possibility of backup or escape if God did not grant success. • Faith in action: Ehud’s plan was bold, but it was undertaken because “the LORD raised up a deliverer” (Judges 3:15). Lessons for Believers Today • Courage begins with conviction. When God’s Word defines the mission, hesitation must give way to obedience (Joshua 1:9). • Preparation is not presumption. Crafting the sword shows that trusting God and making careful plans go hand in hand (Proverbs 21:31). • Leverage God-given uniqueness. Ehud’s left-handedness, once viewed as a limitation, became the very tool God used (1 Corinthians 1:27). • Act despite fear. Courage is not the absence of fear but the choice to honor God above it (2 Timothy 1:7). • Deliverance often starts with one obedient servant. God repeatedly uses single individuals to spark national change (Esther 4:14; Hebrews 11:32-34). Supporting Scriptural Insights • Psalm 144:1—“Blessed be the LORD, my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle.” • Romans 12:11—“Do not let your zeal subside; keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” • James 2:17—“Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” Practical Steps Toward Godly Courage 1. Saturate your mind with Scripture; truth fuels boldness. 2. Identify areas where God is prompting action and prepare diligently. 3. Remember past deliverances; testimony strengthens present resolve (Psalm 77:11). 4. Accept that obedience may look unconventional; God delights in confounding worldly expectations. 5. Step out—courage grows with each faith-filled decision. Conclusion: Living Ehud-Like Boldness Ehud illustrates that God-honoring courage is proactive, strategic, and undeterred by personal risk. His story urges believers to trust God’s call, steward unique strengths, and take decisive action to advance righteousness in their generation. |
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