Judges 3 -- God Is Looking For Better Men And Women, Not Better Methods

God highlighted several men in this chapter who made themselves available at His call to help the nation of Israel in times of trouble.  "When God goes to war, He usually chooses the most unlikely soldiers, hands them the most unusual weapons, and accomplishes through them the most unpredictable results," my commentary says.  "As long as we're in this world, God's people are involved in a spiritual battle against Satan and his armies and God is still looking for men and women who have what it takes to win:  power, strategy, and courage."

"Israel had committed a serious blunder in not trusting God to give them victory, but God sought to use their mistakes for their own good."

"Curiosity is often the first step toward conformity."

"Charles Spurgeon said that God never allows His people to sin successfully.  Their sin will either destroy them or it will invite the chastening hand of God ... There's no evidence that the people repented of their sins when they cried out to God for help, but the Lord responded to their plight and gave them a deliverer."

"Only one verse is devoted to Shamgar ... what was significant about him was the weapon that he used.  An ox goad ... Here was a man who obeyed God and defeated the enemy even though his resources were limited.  Instead of complaining about not possessing a sword or spear, Shamgar gave what he had to the Lord, and the Lord used it."

"The world is looking for better methods, but God is looking for better men and women who understand the basics:  the power of the Holy Spirit, wise strategy, and steadfast courage."

Father God, please open the hearts and minds of those I love to Your truths.  Clear the fog of deception that Satan has planted.  Let them understand fully that You never allow us to sin successfully and that our sin will either destroy us or it will invite Your chastening hand.

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford