Shamgar

Here in America we seem to be under the impression that we are all called to be superstars. Most of us grow up thinking that one day we’ll be rich and famous; you know, an actor, rock&roll star, athlete, etc… Whatever the dream, it has to big and everybody has to know my name. Sadly, this mind-set has crept into our churches and one has to ask, “Are we really serving Jesus or just building up our own little kingdoms?”

Judges 3:31 tells the story(if you can all it that) of Shamgar: “After Ehud, Shamgar son of Anath rescued Israel. He once killed 600 Philistines with an ox goad.” That’s it; one whole verse is all Shamgar gets. Not too impressive is it?

We can learn a lot from Shamgar. Although he is relatively an unknown, he saves Israel from the Philistines, killing 600 of them with what basically amounts to a stick. He had no special powers that we know of, just an ox goad and a willingness to be used by God.  Shamgar is mentioned only one other time in the Bible (Judges 5); and again, no accolades are given.

Are we willing to take what we have in hand and offer it to God for His use? You may think that you don’t have any special gifts or skills. Shamgar had a stick! You may think you’re a nobody; well, let me ask you, “Had you ever heard of Shamgar before today?” Contrary to the mind-set of our culture, you don’t have to be a superstar to be used by God. Just offer yourself and all you have to Him; He’ll take care of the rest.

Are there any Shamgars in the house?