Topical Encyclopedia Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal, is a prominent figure in the Book of Judges, chapters 6 to 8, and is often celebrated for his meekness and humility, qualities that are integral to his role as a judge and leader of Israel. His account unfolds during a time when the Israelites were oppressed by the Midianites due to their disobedience to God. Gideon's life and actions provide a profound example of how meekness can be a source of strength and divine favor.Calling and Humility Gideon's meekness is first evident in his initial response to God's call. When the Angel of the LORD appears to him, calling him a "mighty warrior" (Judges 6:12), Gideon humbly questions his own ability and status, saying, "My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the youngest in my father’s house" (Judges 6:15). This self-effacing attitude reflects a deep humility, acknowledging his limitations and expressing a reliance on God's strength rather than his own. Dependence on God Gideon's meekness is further demonstrated through his dependence on God for guidance and confirmation. Before leading the Israelites into battle against the Midianites, Gideon seeks assurance of God's presence and favor through signs, such as the fleece test (Judges 6:36-40). This reliance on divine direction underscores his recognition of God's sovereignty and his own need for divine support. Leadership and Obedience Despite his initial hesitations, Gideon obediently follows God's instructions, even when they seem counterintuitive. When God reduces Gideon's army from 32,000 to 300 men (Judges 7:2-7), Gideon does not protest but trusts in God's plan. This act of obedience, rooted in meekness, highlights his willingness to submit to God's will, prioritizing divine wisdom over human logic. Victory and Restraint Gideon's victory over the Midianites is marked by his strategic and restrained approach. After the miraculous defeat of the Midianite army, Gideon refuses to accept kingship over Israel, stating, "I will not rule over you, nor will my son. The LORD shall rule over you" (Judges 8:23). This refusal to seize power for personal gain exemplifies his meekness, as he directs glory and authority back to God. Legacy of Meekness Gideon's life serves as a testament to the power of meekness in leadership. His account illustrates how humility, dependence on God, and obedience can lead to divine empowerment and victory. Through Gideon's example, believers are reminded of the importance of meekness as a virtue that aligns one's heart with God's purposes, enabling them to fulfill their calling with grace and strength. Nave's Topical Index Judges 8:2,3And he said to them, What have I done now in comparison of you? Is not the gleaning of the grapes of Ephraim better than the vintage of Abiezer? Nave's Topical Index Library The New Sinai None Greater than John the Baptist, Yet. . . Enthusiasm. Directions How to Hear Sermons Jehovah Aron, Brother of Moses, 486, 487. Texts Explained; Ninthly... The Well-Spring of Salvation Sermons on Selected Lessons of the Gospels. The General Conference of 1804, and of the Annual Conferences of ... Resources What does “blessed are the meek” mean? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the fruit of righteousness in Philippians 1:11? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about humility? | GotQuestions.org Meekness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Meekness: A Characteristic of Wisdom Meekness: A Fruit of the Spirit Meekness: Christ Set an Example of Meekness: General Scriptures Concerning Meekness: Ministers should Follow After Meekness: Ministers should Instruct Opposers With Meekness: Ministers should Urge, on Their People Meekness: Necessary to a Christian Walk Meekness: Precious in the Sight of God Meekness: Saints should Answer for Their Hope With Meekness: Saints should Exhibit, in Conduct Meekness: Saints should Put On Meekness: Saints should Receive the Word of God With Meekness: Saints should Restore the Erring With Meekness: Saints should Show to all Men Meekness: The Gospel to be Preached to Those Who Possess Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Beautified With Salvation Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Exalted Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Guided and Taught Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Preserved Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Richly Provided For Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With: Increase Their Joy Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With: Shall Inherit the Earth Related Terms Long-suffering (23 Occurrences) Longsuffering (17 Occurrences) Tender-heartedness (2 Occurrences) Acknowledgment (6 Occurrences) Superabundance (4 Occurrences) |
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