To Fleece or Not to Fleece?

Today’s reading: Judges 6:36-40

To fleece or not to fleece–that’s the question on my mind after reading Gideon’s requests of God in verses 36-40. The time has come for Israel to go to battle against the Midianites and Amalekites. Gideon has rallied the troops, but he’s still fearful and uncertain about taking the action God has tasked him with. So, using a fleece of wool (a sheep skin), he asks God for two very specific signs to let him know if God is serious about using him to rescue Israel. Both times, God responds just as Gideon requested.

Now here’s the thing–God is God. He’s in control, and He certainly doesn’t answer to us. Yet, He answers Gideon’s specific requests for signs. I’m a little torn on this one because, on the one hand, it doesn’t seem right to me to put a fleece before God. But then, maybe it’s not the request itself that’s problematic but the attitude with which the request is made. There’s certainly a big different between whether the request is a demand on our part or a sincere appeal for confirmation because we need guidance.

So let’s hear it. What are your thoughts on “to fleece or not to fleece,” and why? Tami

Source: Tami’s Blog