Thought about the guy Shamgar much lately?

And now you’re thinking, “Who is that?” Well, he was one of the Judges of Israel like Samson and Gideon. However, he rarely makes the cut for children’s Sunday School lessons because the entire biblical narrative of his life consist of only one verse. Take a look:

“After him [Ehud] was Shamgar the son of Anath, who killed six hundred men of the Philistines with an ox goad; and he also delivered Israel.” – Judges 3:31 NKJV

That’s it. The guy shows up out of nowhere swinging a big stick, gets the “honorable mention” and then disappears just as quick. But the important part is; he got the honorable mention. From that one verse we get some important facts:

• God stepped in and delivered Israel (at His chosen time)
• God included facts that were pertinent (Shamgar’s lineage, Philistines, six hundred and dead)
• God left out details we needn’t worry about (as He often does)
• God used a unique method (not many “ox goad” stories in there)

Based on those facts, consider this:

• Perhaps you’re feeling a little short on details right now; maybe they’re not that pertinent.
• Perhaps the method God’s using to shape you right now doesn’t look like the average story; maybe that’s because your story is unique.
• And perhaps God’s timing feels off; maybe that’s because He works on His own schedule.

Prayer: “Father your ways are unique. Thank you for the many times you’ve cared for me and how you’ve always proved yourself faithful. Please help me to trust you; even if I don’t have the whole story.”

(Also posted as 11-4 devotional on The Compass 365)