Overview
Jether was Gideon's firstborn son during the period of the judges. When Gideon captured the Midianite kings Zebah and Zalmunna, he instructed young Jether to kill them, but the boy was afraid and would not draw his sword (Judges 8:20). As a result, Gideon executed the kings himself, demonstrating that courage and decisive action are necessary when God calls us to fulfill His purposes.
Key Scriptures
"Then he said to Jether his firstborn, 'Rise and kill them!' But the youth did not draw his sword, for he was afraid, because he was still a youth" (Judges 8:20, ESV).
"So Gideon arose and killed Zebah and Zalmunna, and took the crescent ornaments that were on the necks of their camels" (Judges 8:21, NASB).
Application
We must not let fear paralyze us from obeying God's calling, recognizing that maturity and courage develop through trusting Him even when we feel inadequate.