Name means: “one who cuts down”

Startling facts: Gideon wasn’t naturally brave. We first read about him threshing wheat in a pit instead of in the fields, in order to escape being spotted by his people’s enemies—the Midianites. When told by an angel that he had been chosen to defeat these enemies, Gideon wasn’t thrilled. In fact, he came up with quite a few excuses as to why he shouldn’t be chosen. But Gideon desired to believe God’s promises, so he asked for a series of signs as reassurance that God was with him (see Judges 6:11–23; 36–40). God not only gave Gideon the assurance he needed, He also gave Gideon a mysteriously effective battle plan: surround the Midianite camp in the dead of night with only 300 men who were told to carry torches hidden in clay jars. And at the sound of a trumpet, Gideon’s tiny band let out a war whoop, smashed their jars, and sent the Midianites packing. (See Judges 7 for the full story.)

Coolest trait: Gideon started off scared, but he didn’t let that stop him. Instead, he asked God to prove that He would indeed deliver Israel. Once God gave Gideon that proof, Gideon followed God’s military strategy and chased away Israel's enemies.

You can too: Ask God for courage when facing difficult situations or challenging circumstances.