When the Philistines banded together at a place where there was a field full of lentils, Israel’s troops fled from them. But Shammah took his stand in the middle of the field. He defended it and struck the Philistines down, and the Lord brought about a great victory. (2 Samuel 23:11b-12, NIV)
Tucked in the aftermath of one of David’s battles against the Philistines, we meet Shammah. David and his men had just won a huge victory and were weary from the battle. The people came, plundered, and left.
But there were lentils growing in the field and someone had to guard them. So, a small company of soldiers stood watch.
But, the remaining Philistines rallied.
When we hear the word Philistine, our memory tracks to David and his victory over the giant Goliath. If all Philistines were giants, the sight of these mammoth men would strike immediate fear.
Threatened by sword-wielding giants, this tiny band of Israelite soldiers chose their lives over the beans. Everyone but Shammah fled.
The Bible doesn’t say he vacillated or considered his options. He took his position in the middle of the field. Shammah had made a commitment, one that didn’t depend on the task or how many stood with him. No matter the outcome, he would stay and fight.
We don’t know the number of Philistines he fought against. We do know the Lord brought about a great victory! God gave him the power to wipe out every one of those predators. He honored Shammah’s commitment and showed Himself faithful!
A single man turned the tide.
It’s hard to fathom how the name Shammah, which means waste or appalling desolation, came about. One piece of information indicated the name was given due to the mother’s significant suffering during childbirth. Can you picture a mother holding her newborn and saying, “I think I’ll call you waste?”
Ironically, from God’s attributes, we know He redeems and makes everything new. Why do I say that? When I examined the Hebrew names of God, tucked in the list you’ll find Jehovah Shammah – God is there. What a turnaround! From an unpleasant name to one of comfort, hope, and joy!
Shammah wasn’t alone when he defeated the enemy. We are not alone in this Christian walk. An army of one can turn the tide because Jehovah Shammah is right beside us.
Whenever you question what one person can do, please remember you are not alone. He is there.
Written by Amre Coradino
To leave a comment, please click on the title above, TURN THE TIDE, and scroll down. Thank you! 🙂
Thanks for stopping by, Sherry! It’s easy to miss these nuggets of gold but, oh my, how we need every one of them! 🙂
Thank you for your inspiring message of encouragement and for reminding us that we are not alone. The Lord is there beside us even in our darkest battles and most uncertain moments.
I appreciate your insight into this verse. I read II Samuel this summer, and I never fathomed the implications of what this verse was saying.
Thanks for stopping by, Sarah!! 🙂
Thank you for this inspiring story!
Thank you, Robby! God bless you too! 🙂
Amen! He is our Rock and our Redeemer, the Faithful One! Love and hugs to you, Pam! 🙂
Amen, and thanks for stopping by, Deena! 🙂
Wonderful reminder that we are never alone.
Hi Erma,
Always and especially during this past HORRID seven months with the Covid epedemic as well as the upcoming election. God’s Will will be done. It is important I be a “voice” and be mindful of my actions. I am grateful Lord for your precious Word.
Take care sweet Friend⚘
I love this! I love your noticing an important verse I likely have read but not really noticed, and I love the connection of the name of the man with one of the names of God. Bless you!
Hi Valerie. Thanks for stopping by! 🙂
So love this! It spoke to me today!
Amen! So true – He always adds His faithfulness to our little faith! 🙂
God’s word is so encouraging, and these little nuggets He tucks away – what a joy to find them! 🙂
One Nation under God! We are always free in Him! Thanks for stopping by, Don! Good to have you here, always! 🙂
Thank you, Kathy! 🙂
Thank you. Beautiful story.:)
The Red Tide is coming. One Nation under God. Amish and American Farmers will survive. Our cities and boroughs may not.But I will stand behind them armed. For the Land of The Free. For I am a Patriot
Great post, Anne, and a wonderful reminder of how we can apply Biblical history to our everyday struggles.
Great reminder of God’s faithfulness to the faithful!
Ha! Pretty amazing, isn’t it? God’s word has the best treasures, no matter how they begin! 🙂
What a waste!
Hi Shaen! Thanks for stopping by! 🙂
What a great post and wonderful reminder of God’s presence, Erma! ❤️