Dale Pollard
“Now Eglon was a very fat man” (Judges 3.17).
King Eglon of Moab shows up in Judges three as, perhaps, the biggest enemy of God’s people. After Israel turns away from the Lord, God allows Eglon to oppress them for eighteen long years. Though Eglon was a huge ruler, his story teaches us several bigger lessons.
First, Eglon reminds us that earthly power is temporary. He was a king with wealth, influence, and military strength, but his reign ended suddenly. No matter how powerful a person may seem, all human authority is ultimately subject to God’s will (Daniel 4:35).
Second, Eglon’s account shows the consequences of sin. Israel’s oppression under Moab was the result of their disobedience. While Eglon chose to act wickedly, his rise to power was also a reminder that turning away from God brings painful consequences. Sometimes those consequences are big. Very big.
Third, Eglon’s demise proves that God can and will deliver His people in unexpected ways. God raised up Ehud, an unlikely hero, to free Israel from that Moabite oppression. Never underestimate what God can accomplish through ordinary people who simply trust Him. You probably won’t stab an obese man, but God has a job for you all the same.
Finally, Eglon’s story reminds us that pride and self-confidence offer no real security. He likely felt fat and happy in his private chamber, protected by servants and royal status, yet none of these could save him when God’s judgment came.
Moabite sarcophagus in Jordan Archaeological Museum in Amman, Jordan
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