The Midianites, Amalekites, and people from the east joined together, crossed the Jordan River, and camped ready to attack Israel again. The Spirit of the LORD came upon Gideon, and he blew a trumpet to gather the clan of Abiezer to follow him. He also sent messengers throughout the tribes to gather an army. But Gideon was still uncertain in his heart, so he begged God for a sign. He placed a piece of wool on the threshing floor and said: If the wool is wet with dew in the morning but the ground around it is dry, then I will know God really intends to use me to save Israel. The next morning, the wool was soaked—enough water to fill a bowl—while the ground was dry. Gideon asked God to test him once more, this time letting the wool be dry while the ground is wet with dew. God patiently answered his request again. Gideon finally believed God's will and prepared to lead the people into battle.
Gideon used the fleece and the dew to ask God for confirmation, and God did not rebuke his weakness—instead, He patiently answered Gideon's two requests. When our faith is not yet strong enough, God is willing to strengthen us in many ways. But we must also learn to grow from seeking signs to simply trusting, because God's Word itself is the most reliable guarantee.
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