Topical Bible: Prayer: Answered: Gideon, Asking for the Token of Dew

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In the biblical narrative, the account of Gideon seeking confirmation from God through a sign involving dew is a profound example of prayer and divine response. This event is recorded in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 6:36-40. Gideon, a judge of Israel, is called by God to deliver the Israelites from the oppression of the Midianites. Despite receiving a direct commission from the Angel of the Lord, Gideon seeks further assurance of God's promise and presence.

Context and Background

Gideon lived during a tumultuous period in Israel's history when the Israelites were subject to Midianite domination due to their disobedience to God. The people cried out to the Lord for deliverance, and God chose Gideon, a man of humble beginnings from the tribe of Manasseh, to lead them. Despite his initial hesitance and feelings of inadequacy, Gideon is empowered by the Spirit of the Lord to take on this daunting task.

The Prayer for a Sign

In Judges 6:36-40, Gideon requests a sign from God to confirm His promise of victory over the Midianites. Gideon says to God, "If You will deliver Israel by my hand, as You have said, behold, I will place a fleece of wool on the threshing floor. If there is dew only on the fleece and all the ground is dry, then I will know that You will deliver Israel by my hand, as You have said" (Judges 6:36-37).

God graciously responds to Gideon's request. The next morning, Gideon finds the fleece wet with dew while the ground around it remains dry. Yet, seeking further confirmation, Gideon asks for the opposite sign: "Please do not be angry with me, but let me speak once more. Please allow me one more test with the fleece. This time, make the fleece dry, and let the ground be covered with dew" (Judges 6:39). God again answers Gideon's prayer, and the fleece remains dry while the ground is wet with dew.

Significance and Interpretation

Gideon's request for a sign and God's subsequent response highlight several key themes in the biblical understanding of prayer and divine interaction. Firstly, it underscores God's patience and willingness to reassure His chosen servants, even when they struggle with doubt. Gideon's cautious approach reflects a desire for certainty in fulfilling God's command, and God accommodates this need without rebuke.

Secondly, the narrative illustrates the concept of seeking God's will and confirmation through prayer. Gideon's actions demonstrate a reliance on divine guidance rather than human wisdom or strength. This reliance is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, emphasizing the importance of seeking God's direction in all endeavors.

Lastly, the answered prayer of Gideon serves as a testament to God's faithfulness. Despite Gideon's initial hesitance, God remains committed to His promise of deliverance, providing the necessary assurance to bolster Gideon's faith and resolve.

Conclusion

The account of Gideon's prayer for a sign through the token of dew is a powerful example of God's responsiveness to the prayers of His people. It reveals the compassionate nature of God, who meets His servants in their moments of doubt and provides the assurance needed to fulfill His purposes. This narrative continues to inspire believers to seek God's guidance and trust in His promises, knowing that He is faithful to answer prayer.

Nave's Topical Index

Judges 6:36-40
And Gideon said to God, If you will save Israel by my hand, as you have said,
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Saints' Privilege and Profit;
... have been read and offered up which have not been answered. ... to God, he said he would
direct his prayer to God ... signification, to wit, that it was a token of the ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the saints privilege and profit.htm

The Desire of the Righteous Granted;
... Some objections answered.]. ... Did Gideon, think you, believe that he was so strong
in grace as he was ... high favour, saying, 'O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer,' &c ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the desire of the righteous.htm