Old Testament
Judges 6:18
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Please don't leave until I come back with my gift to set before you." And he said, "I will wait until you return."
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Depart not hence, I pray thee, until I come unto thee, and bring forth my present, and set it before thee. And he said, I will tarry until thou come again.
What Judges 6:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 6:18, Gideon, who is visited by an angel of the Lord, asks the angel to wait while he prepares a gift to present to him. This request shows Gideon's desire to honor the divine visitor and to express gratitude. The angel agrees to wait, indicating a willingness to receive Gideon's offering. This moment highlights the importance of hospitality and respect in ancient cultures, as well as the significance of making offerings to God. Gideon's actions reflect a deep reverence and a desire to connect with the divine, which is a theme throughout the book of Judges. The interaction also sets the stage for Gideon's calling as a leader and deliverer of Israel, emphasizing the relationship between God and His chosen servants. Gideon's willingness to prepare a gift demonstrates his commitment to honoring God, which is a vital aspect of faith and worship.
How to apply Judges 6:18 to your life
This verse encourages us to take time to honor God in our lives. Just as Gideon prepared a gift, we can offer our time, talents, and resources to God. It reminds us to be intentional in our worship and to create space for divine encounters in our daily routines.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Illustrated scene from Gideon's story: The Angel at the Winepress (Judges 6:1–24)
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Gideon
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying Judges 6:18
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Judges
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Judges 6:18 mean?
Judges 6:18 shows Gideon asking the angel of the Lord to wait while he prepares a gift. This reflects Gideon's respect and desire to honor the divine visitor, highlighting the importance of hospitality and offerings in his culture.
What is the significance of Gideon's request in Judges 6:18?
Gideon's request for the angel to wait signifies his reverence and commitment to honoring God. It illustrates the value placed on making offerings and the relationship between God and His chosen servants.
What themes are present in Judges 6:18?
Judges 6:18 encompasses themes of hospitality, divine encounter, offering, faith, and respect for God. These themes emphasize the importance of honoring God and being intentional in worship.
What can we learn from Gideon's actions in Judges 6:18?
Gideon's actions teach us the importance of taking time to honor God in our lives. By preparing a gift, he demonstrates a commitment to worship and the value of creating space for divine encounters.
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