(story told in Judges 3:12-30)
During the time of the Judges, the Israelites once again turned away from God, and as a result, they were conquered by King Eglon of Moab. For eighteen years, the people suffered under Moab’s control. Finally, they cried out to God for help, and God raised up a deliverer named Ehud, from the tribe of Benjamin. What made Ehud unique was that he was left-handed—a detail that would play an important role in his mission.
Ehud was chosen to bring tribute, or payment, to King Eglon. Before going, he made a double-edged sword and strapped it to his right thigh under his clothes, where no one would expect it. When Ehud presented the tribute, the guards checked his left side, assuming that’s where a weapon would be hidden, but they found nothing. After giving the tribute, Ehud told the king he had a secret message for him.
Eglon sent his attendants away, and Ehud approached him alone. Then, using his left hand, Ehud drew his sword and struck the king. Eglon died instantly, and Ehud escaped through a back passage before the guards discovered what had happened.
Ehud quickly returned to Israel and blew a trumpet to rally the people. He led them in battle against the Moabites, defeating them completely. That day, God gave Israel victory and peace for eighty years.
Ehud’s story shows that God can use anyone—no matter how unexpected—to carry out His plans. His courage, cleverness, and faith brought freedom to a nation that had turned back to God in their time of need.