Old Testament
Judges 6:38
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That's exactly what happened. When Gideon got up early the next morning, he squeezed the fleece and wrung out enough dew to fill an entire bowl with water.
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And it was so: for he rose up early on the morrow, and thrust the fleece together, and wringed the dew out of the fleece, a bowl full of water.
What Judges 6:38 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 6:38, Gideon seeks confirmation from God about his mission to save Israel from the Midianites. He places a fleece on the ground and asks God to make the fleece wet with dew while keeping the surrounding ground dry. The next morning, Gideon finds the fleece soaked with enough dew to fill a bowl, while the ground remains dry. This miraculous sign reassures Gideon of God's presence and guidance. It illustrates Gideon's desire for certainty in his calling and highlights God's willingness to provide signs to strengthen faith. Gideon's actions reflect a common human need for reassurance when faced with daunting tasks. This moment is pivotal as it shows the relationship between faith and divine confirmation, emphasizing that God understands our doubts and fears and is ready to affirm our paths when we seek His guidance.
How to apply Judges 6:38 to your life
When facing uncertainty or difficult decisions, it's natural to seek confirmation and guidance. Like Gideon, we can ask God for signs or clarity in our paths. Trusting in God's response can strengthen our faith and help us move forward with confidence.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Illustrated scene from Gideon's story: The Fleece (Judges 6:33–40)
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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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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying Judges 6:38
Related Bible verses
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 Gideon's fleece represent in Judges 6:38?
Gideon's fleece represents a request for divine confirmation and assurance. By asking God to make the fleece wet while keeping the ground dry, Gideon sought a tangible sign of God's presence and guidance in his mission to save Israel. This act illustrates the human desire for certainty when faced with significant challenges.
How can I apply Gideon's fleece test to my life?
You can apply Gideon's fleece test by seeking clarity and confirmation from God when making important decisions. Like Gideon, you can pray for specific signs or guidance in your circumstances. However, it's essential to remain open to God's responses, which may come in various forms, and to trust in His timing and wisdom.
Why did Gideon need confirmation from God?
Gideon needed confirmation from God due to his doubts and fears about leading Israel against the Midianites. He felt inadequate and uncertain about his abilities and the enormity of the task ahead. Seeking reassurance through the fleece test reflects a common human experience of needing encouragement and support when facing daunting challenges.
What does this verse teach about faith and doubt?
Judges 6:38 teaches that faith and doubt can coexist. Gideon's request for a sign demonstrates his struggle with uncertainty, yet his willingness to seek God's confirmation shows a desire to trust in divine guidance. This verse highlights that God understands our doubts and is patient with us, providing the reassurance we need to strengthen our faith.
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