Definition: And Gideon said unto God, Let not thine anger be hot against me, and I will speak but this once: let me prove, I pray thee, but this once with the fleece; let it now be dry only upon the fleece, and upon all the ground let there be dew.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 6:39. It’s a really important and somewhat surprising passage about Gideon’s faith and his willingness to prove himself. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Gideon is facing a huge challenge: Gideon, a young man from the tribe of Judah, has been called by God to save Israel from a giant army of enemies. This is a critical moment for the Israelites. Gideon’s Request: Gideon asks God to test him once . He wants to see if he’s truly worthy to lead and fight against these enemies. What He's Asking (The Test): “Let not thine anger be hot against me…” This is crucial. Gideon isn’t asking for a battle; he’s asking for a test of his character – that he shouldn’t become angry or bitter if he fails. It's about maintaining his composure and faith. “…and I will speak but this once: let me prove, I pray thee, but this once with the fleece.” This is the core of the verse. Gideon wants a single, specific demonstration of his worthiness. He’s asking for something to happen once , and that thing is to cover the ground with a thick layer of dew (water). What He Wants to Happen: “Let it now be dry only upon the fleece…” This means Gideon needs to create a patch of land where water doesn't soak in – a dry area. It’s about creating a place that can sustain life and agriculture. The Meaning & Significance: This verse is a powerful message of faithfulness and perseverance. It speaks to: God's Patience: God isn’t rushing Gideon; He's giving him time to prove himself. Testing Faith: It highlights that God doesn't just look for strength, but also for the right kind of faith – a steadfast commitment to his purpose. The Importance of a Single Test: It suggests that true worthiness isn’t about doing everything perfectly all the time; sometimes, it requires a single, significant act of demonstrating your dedication. In essence, Gideon is asking God to see if he's willing to put himself on the line and do what's necessary, even when it’s difficult. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme?