- Read Proverbs 15:1-2 and then read Judges 7:24-8:30. How did Gideon’s words demonstrate the wisdom found in Proverbs 15?
- What could have been some reasons behind the anger of the tribe of Ephraim?
- What was Gideon’s request of the men of Succoth and Penuel? Why did they deny his request and why was their response especially offensive to Gideon? (Hint: consider who these people were historically and the cultural norms)
- What was Gideon’s reasoning for putting the princes of Midian to death? How did he go about executing them?
- How did the Israelites react to Gideon’s conquest and what truth did Gideon give them in return?
- Despite rejecting the throne, how did Gideon still live and act like an earthly king?
- By God’s grace and power, Gideon defeated many enemies but underestimated the enemy within himself. What do you think caused Gideon to do what he did and what can be learned from the ending of Gideon’s story?
- Gideon had forty years of peace, yet he never removed the ephod he had made. While we may not have a physical ephod, we can still harbor idols in our hearts. How would you define an idol in today’s context?
Application:
- Is there anyone in my life that I am tempted to give a harsh word rather than a soft answer? How can God help me to obey the wisdom of Proverbs 15:1-2?
- Am I available and willing in faith to be used as God sees fit? If yes, why? If not, what needs to change?
- In what battle has God given me the victory and how will I praise and bring Him glory for it?
- Where do I want to honor God but also include myself in the honor? How can God help me stay humble when my pride calls me to honor myself?
- Just as God called Gideon to deliver Israel, He calls us to be His ambassadors. In what areas—whether at home, in the church, or in the world—do you sense God calling you to greater faithfulness?
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