After him, Ibzan of Bethlehem judged Israel. He had thirty sons and thirty daughters. He gave his daughters in marriage outside his clan and brought in thirty daughters-in-law from the outside for his sons.

10 He judged Israel seven years. Ibzan died and was buried in Bethlehem.

11-12 After him, Elon the Zebulunite judged Israel. He judged Israel ten years. Elon the Zebulunite died and was buried at Aijalon in the land of Zebulun.

13-15 After him, Abdon son of Hillel the Pirathonite judged Israel. He had forty sons and thirty grandsons who rode on seventy donkeys. He judged Israel eight years. Abdon son of Hillel the Pirathonite died and was buried at Pirathon in the land of Ephraim in the Amalekite hill country. (The Message)

Once again I am reminded that although a few of God’s servants may become very well known, the majority do not; and that’s okay. It’s ultimately about God’s purposes. Do your very best in whatever sphere God gives you, be it large or small.

We are about to start looking at the life of Samson, the last of the Judges. Whereas there will be widespread recognition of his name (after all, he had both fame and infamy), Ibzan, Elon and Abdon do not spring readily to mind. But here’s the thing: each one of them played their part. You and I can do the same.

There’s a lot to be said for obscurity (although I doubt these 3 were anonymous in their time). I heard a pastor of a mega-church somewhere in Asia say how nice it would be to go into the city with his family, and not be recognised. To just be able to lead a quiet life. But he was so well-known, with thousands upon thousands in his church, and an international television ministry, that such a life was not possible.

So you have to do the best with whatever God gives you, wherever he puts you, and not be looking over your shoulder at someone else’s ‘allotment’.

Remember:

”They came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, that man who was with you on the other side of the Jordan—the one you testified about—look, he is baptizing, and everyone is going to him.”

To this John replied, “A person can receive only what is given them from heaven.” (John 3:26,27)

And:

”Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is going to betray you?”) When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?”

Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.” (John 21:20-22)