Listen to last week’s sermon The Story of Shamgar found in Judges 3:31

Have you ever felt unnoticed, underestimated, or overlooked?
Do you wonder if your small acts or quiet service matter in the grand scheme of things? Pastor Eric’s sermon at New Beginning Church in Rockland last week, brings us face-to-face with a biblical figure whose entire legacy is captured in a single verse: Shamgar.

Who Was Shamgar in Judges 3:31?

Shamgar is one of the lesser-known judges in the Book of Judges, often overshadowed by names like Deborah, Samson, and Gideon. Yet, his story, found in Judges 3:31, teaches us profound lessons about faith, courage, and the power of small beginnings.

Judges 3:31 (ESV):
“After him was Shamgar the son of Anath, who killed 600 of the Philistines with an oxgoad, and he also saved Israel.”

That’s it—one verse. But within this single sentence lies a message that can transform how we view our own lives and service to God.

1. You Don’t Need Favorable Odds to Do Something Great

Shamgar faced impossible odds. 600 Philistine warriors against one farmer. The Philistines were Israel’s persistent enemies, technologically advanced and oppressive. Yet, Shamgar didn’t let the odds define him. He believed that one person with God is a majority. God is not limited by statistics, diagnoses, or declarations of defeat.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:13

With God all things are possible.

Matthew 19:26

What “600 to 1” odds are you facing today? Whether it’s a health diagnosis, financial crisis, or feelings of inadequacy, remember that God specializes in turning the odds upside down. Like the bumblebee, which shouldn’t be able to fly because of size and small wings but does, you too can rise above limitations when you trust God.

2. You Don’t Need the Perfect Title to Make a Big Impact

Shamgar’s background is mysterious. His name isn’t Hebrew, and “son of Anath” may suggest Canaanite heritage or outsider status. He wasn’t a prophet, priest, or charismatic leader—he was a farmer.

This shows us that God often uses those who are faithful in the ordinary, mundane routines of life.

You don’t need a grand title or public recognition to make a difference. Faithfulness in small things prepares you for greater impact.

Illustration:

Pastor Eric shared how New Beginning Church found itself with just 14 people and few resources one day. People where wondering if New Beginning Church was going to close. But the church received an encouraging word from Zechariah 4:10:

“Do not despise the days of small beginnings.” (Zechariah 4:10)

3. You Don’t Need the Finest Tools to Achieve Something Amazing

Shamgar’s weapon was an oxgoad—a simple farming tool, not a sword or spear. Israel had no access to weapons, yet God used what Shamgar had in his hand. God can use whatever you have, no matter how ordinary it seems.

Biblical Examples:

• • Moses’ staff led Israel out of Egypt.
  • David’s slingshot defeated Goliath.
  • Jesus fed thousands with a few loaves and fish.

“God uses men who are weak and feeble enough to lean on Him.” – Hudson Taylor

What Is in Your Hand?

The story of Shamgar challenges us to stop focusing on what we lack and start offering what we have to God. Whether it’s little time, little strength, or little resources, God can multiply your “little” into something great.

Illustration:
A little girl at a revival meeting had nothing to give but herself. She stepped into the offering plate, saying, “Tonight, I give myself to Jesus.” Her act moved the entire church, showing that God values our willingness more than our resources.

“God is not looking for ability, but availability.”

Will You Give Yourself to God Today?

You may feel unnoticed, unqualified, or unequipped. But the story of Shamgar in Judges 3:31 reminds us that God delights in using ordinary people for extraordinary purposes. Your small acts, when placed in God’s hands, can deliver nations, change lives, and bring glory to His name.

Watch sermon here: