The account of Gideon’s fleece is found in Judges 6:36–40. Gideon was called by God to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites. Though the Angel of the Lord had appeared to him and miraculous signs were already given, Gideon still sought confirmation from God to strengthen his faith.
Gideon said to God, “If You will save Israel by my hand as You have said—look, I shall put a fleece of wool on the threshing floor; if there is dew on the fleece only, and it is dry on all the ground, then I shall know that You will save Israel by my hand” (Judges 6:36–37). The next morning, he wrung a bowlful of water from the fleece, while the ground was dry (Judges 6:38).
Still not fully assured, Gideon asked for a second sign. This time he requested that the fleece remain dry while the ground around it be covered with dew. God granted his request once again (Judges 6:39–40).
These signs were not acts of unbelief, but expressions of Gideon’s desire for confirmation of God’s word, as he was preparing to lead Israel into battle. God graciously responded to both requests, showing His patience and understanding toward Gideon’s need for assurance.
While this event demons/”>demonstrates God’s willingness to affirm His calling, it also teaches that mature faith rests in God’s word alone. Gideon’s method is not given as a standard for discerning God’s will. Rather, it highlights God’s mercy in strengthening the hesitant and His power in accomplishing His purpose through weak vessels.
