TEXAS GOSPEL VOLUNTEER

God calls ordinary people to do extraordinary things. This truth shines through in the story of Shamgar, a little-known judge in ancient Israel. Shamgar’s tale reminds us that God can use anyone, no matter how unremarkable they may seem, to bring about His purposes.

In Shamgar’s time, Israel was facing a dire situation. The Philistines had taken control of the main roads, cutting off supplies and wearing down the Israelites through a war of attrition. The people were forced to use winding back roads and mountain paths just to get around. It seemed like a hopeless situation, but God had a plan.

Enter Shamgar, an ordinary man with no special qualifications mentioned in the Bible. There was no dramatic calling like a burning bush or a blinding light. Yet God chose this everyday person to save Israel. Armed only with an ox goad, Shamgar struck down 600 Philistines and brought peace to the land.

Shamgar’s story teaches us that God’s word is always useful and profitable, even in the brief mentions that might seem unimportant at first glance. As it says in 2 Timothy 3:16, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” Every part of the Bible, including the short account of Shamgar, has something valuable to teach us.

This year, as we think about making changes in our lives, we should ask ourselves: “Am I where God wants me to be, and am I doing what God wants me to do?” Like Shamgar, we may feel ordinary or ill-equipped, but God can use us in mighty ways if we’re willing to answer His call. We don’t need special qualifications or dramatic experiences – just a willingness to serve where God places us