Topical Bible: Prayer: Gideon Asks for a Sign of Dew on a Fleece

◄ Prayer: Gideon Asks for a Sign of Dew on a Fleece ►

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Biblical Context:
The account of Gideon asking for a sign from God is found in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 6:36-40. This narrative occurs during a time when the Israelites were oppressed by the Midianites. God called Gideon to deliver Israel from this oppression, but Gideon, feeling inadequate and uncertain, sought confirmation of God's promise through a sign.

Scriptural Account:
In Judges 6:36-40 , the passage reads:

"Then Gideon said 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.' And that is what happened. When Gideon rose early the next morning, he squeezed the fleece and wrung out the dew—a bowlful of water.

Then Gideon said to God, 'Do not be angry with me, but let me speak once more. Please allow me to test once more with the fleece. May the fleece remain dry, and the ground be covered with dew.' And that night God did so. Only the fleece was dry, and dew covered the ground."

Theological Significance:
Gideon's request for a sign is a profound example of seeking divine assurance in the face of daunting tasks. It highlights the human tendency to seek tangible evidence of God's promises, especially when faced with overwhelming challenges. Gideon's actions reflect a desire for confirmation of God's will and presence, demonstrating a reliance on divine guidance.

Faith and Assurance:
Gideon's interaction with God through the fleece testifies to the patience and understanding of God towards human frailty. Despite Gideon's initial doubt, God graciously provided the signs he requested, affirming His commitment to deliver Israel through Gideon. This narrative underscores the importance of faith and the assurance that God is with His people, even when they seek signs of His presence.

Lessons in Prayer:
Gideon's prayerful request for a sign teaches believers about the nature of prayer as a dialogue with God. It illustrates that prayer can include seeking confirmation and clarity from God, especially when discerning His will. However, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's promises, even when signs are not given.

Application for Believers:
For contemporary believers, Gideon's account encourages a balance between seeking God's guidance and trusting in His promises. While it is not always appropriate to demand signs from God, the narrative reassures believers that God understands their need for assurance and is patient with their requests. It invites believers to approach God with honesty and humility, trusting in His faithfulness and sovereignty.

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

Gideon's Fleece
... and adulterous generation asked for a sign,' no sign was given it, but when faith
asks for one ... Gideon's prayer was wrapped, as it were, in an enfolding ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture f/gideons fleece.htm

Sleep Not
... He who leaves his door unlocked asks the thief to enter ... Will you cease from the
importunities of prayer? ... the door is wet, but you, like Gideon's fleece, are dry ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 17 1871/sleep not.htm

Moody's Stories
... A colored man said he had seen a sign; he said it read, "GP C," and he ... so that it
must be amputated, God will forgive him if he asks it, but ... Unlocked By Prayer. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/moody/moodys stories/moodys stories.htm