Judges 8:15

And he came unto the men of Succoth, and said, Behold Zebah and Zalmunna, with whom ye did upbraid me, saying, Are the hands of Zebah and Zalmunna now in thine hand, that we should give bread unto thy men that are weary?

Judges 8:15 (KJV)

Context

This verse is part of Gideon’s story, a judge raised by God to rescue Israel from Midianite oppression. After a miraculous victory, Gideon pursued and captured the two Midianite kings, Zebah and Zalmunna. Earlier, when he asked Succoth for food for his exhausted troops, the townspeople refused and taunted him, asking whether the kings’ hands were already in his hand.

Meaning

Now Gideon returns to Succoth with the two kings as captives. He repeats their own words back to them: “Behold Zebah and Zalmunna, with whom ye did upbraid me.” The word “upbraid” means to reproach or taunt. Gideon’s repetition shows he has not forgotten their lack of faith and hospitality. Their doubt is now answered with proof.

The men of Succoth displayed skepticism even after witnessing God’s power. Their refusal to give bread revealed selfishness and a lack of compassion. Gideon’s continued trust in God’s provision, despite the town’s refusal, demonstrates reliance on divine faithfulness amid adversity.

Biblical connections

This verse fulfills Gideon’s earlier promise in Judges 8:7 and sets the stage for the punishment of Succoth’s leaders. It shows that God’s deliverance through Gideon was complete: not only were the Midianite armies defeated, but their kings were captured, proving Gideon’s authority was genuine.

Application

Words spoken in doubt or contempt may be recalled and answered. God is faithful to complete what He has begun, and those who oppose or doubt His servants will see His purposes fulfilled. We are called to trust God’s promises, avoid skepticism, and extend kindness and hospitality, especially to those who labor for God’s kingdom.

We should also encourage fellow believers rather than reproach them. Withholding support from God’s people in their time of need is rooted in unbelief and will be confronted. Instead, we are to aid those who are weary in His service.

Reflection

Consider how you respond when God’s work seems incomplete. Do you demand proof before offering help, or do you trust and support those He has called? Let this verse remind you that God’s purposes will be fulfilled, and He calls you to stand with His servants in faith and compassion.