Old Testament
Judges 8:4
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Gideon and his 300 men crossed the Jordan River. They were exhausted but still chasing the enemy.
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And Gideon came to Jordan, and passed over, he, and the three hundred men that were with him, faint, yet pursuing them.
What Judges 8:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 8:4, we see Gideon and his small army of 300 men crossing the Jordan River while they are physically exhausted. Despite their fatigue, they continue to pursue the enemy, demonstrating their determination and commitment to victory. This moment highlights the challenges they faced, as they were not only outnumbered but also weary from battle. Gideon's leadership and the loyalty of his men are evident as they press on, showing that perseverance is crucial even in difficult circumstances. Their journey symbolizes the struggle against overwhelming odds and the importance of faith and resilience in achieving one's goals. This passage encourages readers to remain steadfast in their pursuits, even when faced with exhaustion or adversity, reminding us that success often requires enduring through tough times.
How to apply Judges 8:4 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of perseverance in our own lives. Even when we feel exhausted or overwhelmed, we should continue to pursue our goals and remain committed to our responsibilities. Like Gideon and his men, we can find strength in our determination and faith to overcome challenges.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Illustrated scene from Gideon's story: Faint, Yet Pursuing (Judges 8:4–21)
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Gideon
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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Keep studying Judges 8:4
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Key themes
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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 8:4 mean?
Judges 8:4 describes Gideon and his 300 men crossing the Jordan River while exhausted but still pursuing their enemies. This illustrates their determination and commitment to victory despite overwhelming odds.
What is the significance of Gideon's actions in Judges 8:4?
Gideon's actions in Judges 8:4 highlight the themes of perseverance and leadership. His decision to continue the pursuit, even when tired, shows the importance of resilience in the face of challenges.
What does the phrase 'faint, yet pursuing' mean in Judges 8:4?
The phrase 'faint, yet pursuing' indicates that Gideon and his men were physically worn out but remained focused on their goal of defeating the enemy, emphasizing their determination and courage.
What lessons can we learn from Judges 8:4?
Judges 8:4 teaches us about the value of perseverance and commitment. It encourages us to keep pushing forward in our goals, even when we feel exhausted or face difficulties.
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