Judges 8:1-9

1Then the people of Ephraim asked Gideon, “Why have you treated us this way? Why didn’t you send for us when you first went out to fight the Midianites?” And they argued heatedly with Gideon.

2But Gideon replied, “What have I accomplished compared to you? Aren’t even the leftover grapes of Ephraim’s harvest better than the entire crop of my little clan of Abiezer?

3God gave you victory over Oreb and Zeeb, the commanders of the Midianite army. What have I accomplished compared to that?” When the men of Ephraim heard Gideon’s answer, their anger subsided.

4Gideon then crossed the Jordan River with his 300 men, and though exhausted, they continued to chase the enemy.

5When they reached Succoth, Gideon asked the leaders of the town, “Please give my warriors some food. They are very tired. I am chasing Zebah and Zalmunna, the kings of Midian.”

6But the officials of Succoth replied, “Catch Zebah and Zalmunna first, and then we will feed your army.”

7So Gideon said, “After the Lord gives me victory over Zebah and Zalmunna, I will return and tear your flesh with the thorns and briers from the wilderness.”

8From there Gideon went up to Peniel and again asked for food, but he got the same answer.

9So he said to the people of Peniel, “After I return in victory, I will tear down this tower.”