The book of Judges chapter 11 introduces us to the unique character Jephthah.  “A mighty man of Valor, but he was the son of a harlot.”  What an introduction, “Mighty and valiant, but…he was the son of a prostitute.”  To add fuel to the fire as he grew older his brothers from another mother told him,”you shall have no inheritance in our father’s house, for you are the son of another woman.” Jephthah is forced out on his own, in shame. He leaves for the land of Tob where worthless men banded together under him.

It is here where choices are made.  It would be easy and justifiable to some to become bitter and allow the shame of the situation to consume the heart.  However, this was not the case for Jephthah who was noted in Hebrews as a man of faith who did not let bitterness take root.  Instead he grew stronger, deeper and became a man of influence in his circle. Apparently he developed a reputation as a warrior. For when the threat of an invasion of the Ammonites loomed over Israel, who did they call? The man of character, strength and valor, Jephthah. He went on to lead Israel for 6 years until his death.

Shame is a robber and is after your future. This evil can be ruthless and is a core tactic of the enemy.  This public enemy number one was battled all the way to the cross where victory was finally found.  Hebrews 12:2 – For the joy that was set before Him, He endured the cross despising the shame. Jesus despised it, setting his face like a rock knowing he will not be put to shame. We too have this victory.  Romans 10:11 – Whoever believes in Him will not be put to shame.

Jephthah discovered that if the shame of life, that is many times out of our control, does not take root in our heart we can see a life of great reward.