What does Judges 8:4 Mean?

Context Summary

The fleeing host made for the three fords of the Jordan, and with all haste Gideon summoned the tribes to anticipate them. The way of the victor was not without its drawbacks and discouragements. Ephraim was wroth; Succoth and Penuel were contemptuous; his own men were faint, though pursuing. But the faith that had won the great victory never wavered. Gideon "endured as seeing Him who is invisible." From the eternal source of patience and hope he derived the grace of continuance. This is what Paul also learned and taught in after-years, 2 Corinthians 6:4, etc.

When the soul is leaning on God, drawing on his resources and affirming his sufficient grace, it can afford to answer Ephraim pleasantly; it will not shrink from rebuking cowardice in Penuel and Succoth; and it will hold on its victorious way, until the last enemy is destroyed and it enters the presence of God to receive the "Well done!" Discouraged soul, get alone, shut your door on all other thoughts, and say over and over to God the words with which the good Asaph ends Psalms 73:23-28. Let these fill your heart with music till you are strong again. [source]

Chapter Summary: Judges 8

¹  Gideon pacifies the Ephraimites
⁴  Succoth and Penuel refuse to deliver Gideon's army
¹⁰  Zebah and Zalmunna are taken
¹³  Succoth and Penuel are destroyed
¹⁷  Gideon revenges his brothers's death on Zebah and Zalmunna
²²  He refuses government
²⁴  His ephod the cause of idolatry
²⁸  Midian subdued
²⁹  Gideon's children, and death
³³  The Israelites' idolatry and ingratitude