Lessons from Shamgar

Obscurity & Valour: Lessons from Shamgar

Introduction: Who was Shamgar? How often have we skipped over his name?

He was the third judge of Israel and his story seems to be part of the greater period of Ehud’s life. His service for Israel seems to be a little different than the standard Israel were delivered, then they sinned and they they were delivered formula of the book of Judges. However there are important remidners and lessons from this obscure judge.

The story of Shamgar, a judge of Israel, showcases how God can use seemingly insignificant individuals for His mighty purposes.

This passage reminds us that God can use anyone, regardless of their background or status, to accomplish great things for His kingdom. It encourages us to stay faithful in obscurity, knowing that God sees our efforts and will reward them in due time.

The story of Shamgar teaches us the importance of faithfulness, courage, and obedience in serving God. It shows that even the smallest act of obedience can have a significant impact when done in faith.

God can use anyone, no matter how insignificant they may seem, to accomplish His purposes when they are faithful and obedient. Trust in God's power to work through you, even in times of obscurity.

1. The Lord uses Simple Acts that have a Significant Impact

Judges 3:31

Shamgar's single verse mention in the Bible underscores the theme of God using the seemingly insignificant for His grand purposes. Highlight the simplicity and obscurity of Shamgar's background and how, despite his brief biblical mention, his impact was significant. This can encourage listeners to see their potential for God's kingdom, no matter how small or hidden their current role might seem, reflecting on Christ's ability to use anyone who is faithful.

In the early 20th century, John Newton Howitt, an obscure Protestant, dedicated his life to serving the poor in the slums of London. Inspired by his Christian faith, he established a network of shelters and soup kitchens, providing hope and practical support to thousands of people in need.

How many prayer warriors and faithful servants were behind the great men of faith in church history?

At home, serving the Lord in obscurity can make you feel unseen and unappreciated. To address this, intentionally create moments to serve your family members without expecting praise. Pray for opportunities to demonstrate Christ's love through your actions and words, even in the small, unnoticed tasks.

Practice humility in obscure service by willingly taking on tasks that are often overlooked or unappreciated by others, such as cleaning communal areas or organizing shared spaces. By serving in humility without seeking recognition, you are imitating Christ's example of selfless love.

Embrace humility in obscure service within your church community by volunteering for behind-the-scenes roles like setting up for events, cleaning up after gatherings, or offering to pray for others in need. Serving humbly in these unseen ways can foster unity and build up the body of Christ.

2. The Lord’s Servants have Courage in Times of Crisis

Judges 5:6

The conditions of Shamgar's time—'In the days of Shamgar, son of Anath, in the days of Jael, the highways were abandoned, and travelers kept to the byways'—reflect the difficulties and challenges he faced. This can point to the courage required to serve God in adverse conditions, encouraging listeners to trust in God's strength in their struggles, drawing a parallel with the courage Christ gives us in facing our spiritual battles.

Having a desire to serve the Lord in obscurity can lead to feelings of insignificance and lack of impact. To overcome this, intentionally seek ways to serve your family and neighbors with love and humility. Offer to help with tasks without seeking recognition and show Christ's love through your actions.

In a work environment, feeling unnoticed while serving the Lord can be challenging. To overcome this, strive to be a light in your workplace by demonstrating integrity, kindness, and a strong work ethic. Show Christ through your interactions with colleagues and clients, even when no one is watching.

Within the church community, serving in obscurity may lead to feelings of unimportance. To combat this, volunteer for tasks that are often overlooked, such as cleaning or setting up for events. Serve with a joyful heart, knowing that God sees your efforts and values your humble service.

When serving in the church without recognition, it can be discouraging. To overcome this, focus on serving God rather than seeking human approval. Dedicate time to pray for the needs of the church and its members, faithfully interceding for others even when your efforts go unnoticed.

3. Many Servants of the Lord are Unseen Heroes of the Faith

Hebrews 11:32-34

Parallels between Shamgar and the figures mentioned in Hebrews 11, emphasizing that faith is the common denominator among God's servants, no matter how renowned or obscure. This emphasizes that faithfulness and obedience, not one's background or abilities, qualify us for God's work. It also points to how Christ empowers us through faith to overcome the world, much like how Shamgar, with God's help, achieved what seemed impossible.

A member of Spurgeon's church faced a health crisis, and the whole congregation rallied around them in prayer. Miraculously, the individual experienced healing, and this testimony became a source of encouragement and faith for others in the church.

How this passage could point to Christ: Shamgar's story points to Christ as the ultimate Deliverer and Judge who comes to rescue His people from their enemies. While Shamgar's victory was temporary, Christ's victory over sin and death is eternal.

God can use anyone, no matter how insignificant they may seem, to accomplish His purposes when they are faithful and obedient. Trust in God's power to work through you, even in times of obscurity.