Working For Beans

Dale Pollard

Shammah is one of those Bible characters that deserves, in the authors opinion, far more recognition than he does. In 2 Samuel 23.11-12, the Philistines had once again attacked Israel and now the army is scrambling off with their tail between their legs. Everyone, that is, except for Shammah. He stood alone in a field of lentils as the charging Philistines came barreling right for him. Do you know how much cover you have in a lentil field? None. Not that a corn field would necessarily be better under the circumstances, but the text indicates that Shammah positioned himself in the center (v.12). Now, easily surrounded, the outcome should not have read like this…

“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.”

It’s an incredible feat with some valuable lessons.

Most people imagine greatness happening in front of a large crowd, but many of God’s servants worked in those unnoticed places. Shammah didn’t defend some grand treasure hoard or a city gate. He protected a harvest of beans (with a mediocre taste) that fed people. The brief mention of Shammah in scripture gives us a glimpse of his character.

He wasn’t a quitter.

This guy tells us all that hard work isn’t just about ambition or chasing recognition. Sometimes it’s simply about standing your ground, doing your duty, and refusing to abandon the work God has put in front of you. If you’re working for the Lord, it’s important. Whether it’s providing for family, staying honest under pressure, or pushing on when it’s tempting to walk away—perseverance honors God.

Just like Shammah, a person may never become famous but being steadfast and relentless is a great victory when done for the Lord.

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving” (Col.3.23-24).

Protect the beans; the work doesn’t go unseen.