What lessons on courage and faith can we apply from Ehud's story? Setting the Scene: Judges 3:22 “Even the handle sank in after the blade, and Eglon’s fat closed in over it, so that Ehud did not withdraw the sword from his belly, and the refuse came out.” Lesson 1: Courage Begins with Conviction •Before the assassination, “the LORD raised up Ehud” (Judges 3:15)—his courage rests on God’s clear call, not personal bravado. •Conviction anchored in God’s word fuels bold action (Joshua 1:9; Acts 4:20). •Today, certainty that God’s commands are true steels believers to confront evil even when it looks impossible. Lesson 2: Faith Acts in Obedience, Not Recklessness •Though the mission was dangerous, Ehud followed a divinely directed plan, not a rash impulse (Judges 3:19–20). •Scripture often weds courage to obedience—see Hebrews 11:8, where Abraham “obeyed and went.” •Real faith trusts God’s outcome enough to take the next obedient step, whatever the risk. Lesson 3: God Uses Weakness to Display Strength •Ehud was left-handed, a rarity that God turned into strategic advantage (Judges 3:15, 21). •1 Corinthians 1:27—“God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.” •Our perceived limitations can become platforms for the Lord’s power when surrendered to Him. Lesson 4: Strategic Wisdom Accompanies Courage •Ehud smuggles a dagger past the guards, requests a private audience, and locks the doors (Judges 3:16–23). •Jesus commends being “shrewd as serpents, yet innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16). •Courage is not careless; it plans prayerfully and walks wisely. Lesson 5: One Act of Faith Ignites Many •After striking Eglon, Ehud sounds the trumpet and Israel rallies (Judges 3:27). •David’s courage stirred Israel’s army (1 Samuel 17:52). •Your faith-filled stand may embolden a whole community to trust God. Lesson 6: Divine Deliverance Brings Rest •“Moab was subdued… and the land had peace for eighty years” (Judges 3:30). •God’s victories produce lasting rest (Psalm 46:9; John 16:33). •When believers act in Spirit-led courage, the result often extends far beyond the moment—rippling into generational blessing. Putting It Together •Courage flows from a heart convinced of God’s word. •Faith obeys, leveraging God-given wisdom while relying on His strength. •One obedient act can catalyze collective faith and usher in seasons of peace that only the Lord can secure. |
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