Wingman

“And Judah said unto Simeon his brother, Come up with me into my lot, that we may fight against the Canaanites; and I likewise will go with thee into thy lot. So Simeon went with him.”

-Judges 1:3

The Lord chose the first in line to possess the promised land inheritance to be Judah. “Judah is a lion’s whelp” (Gen. 49:9) Jacob observed, because of that tribe’s tenacity and courage. Though Judah was the 4th tribe by age, he had been placed into first place by loyalty to God’s words. First place is a privilege, but also a real job!

Moses gave this promise to Judah, “Hear, LORD, the voice of Judah, and bring him unto his people: let his hands be sufficient for him; and be thou an help to him from his enemies.” (Deut. 33:7) Judah had an assurance of victory to be able to clear God’s land (Israel) of all the beastly heathen that were existing there. God’s word never fails, thus the outcome was already set. Yet the leaders of Judah, when the time came, sought for a brother to help them.

We won’t consider today whether Judah was right or wrong to have apprehensions about charging into the land, or whether that doubt was the cause of the nation later falling away. What I’d like to look at is the role of Simeon: the supportive brother.

Many Bible-believing, God-fearing brothers walk away from the call of God on their life for a ‘safe’ option. Though they have the strong consolation of the Scriptures, the sure Word of prophecy, and a clear, personal Calling from God, they back away when the time comes to step out.

I have been where they are, and I must admit that were it not for a fellow Christian who stepped out with me, I would not have been brave enough to do it alone. I needed a Simeon, and Simeons are needed today.

Simeons will volunteer- Judah sought for reinforcements. Simeon did not have to fight alongside them. They were not required to help, but they did.
Simeons will accept a brother’s promotion- Simeon was the second-oldest brother, but was bypassed as God’s choice for Judah. (See Gen. 34 and 49:5-6) Most brethren would let jealousy ruin their lives, but not Simeon. He was happy to allow his brother to be first, but wait, he also helped to be first. What a good attitude!
Simeons will hold up their bargain- Judah made a deal with Simeon, to help them after Judah’s possession was taken. Judah did team up with the tribe of Simeon to their inheritance, but were not able to clear all of it. (Judges 1:19) He had stretched himself for his brother, and was rewarded poorly for it. Still, not a word of bitterness from Simeon; he was happy to help!

You will find yourself in both roles in your life. If you’re like most, you can point to a time where you’ve been JUDAH, and someone has gone out of their way to help you. Don’t shy away from being a SIMEON for another in need. A willing, caring, cheerful companion is crucial for courage through every stage of your life.

Looking for a Simeon? Church is where you will find him. He will uphold you in prayer, support you when you try to do right, and help you when you struggle with courage. Come to Church this Sunday! Be encouraged and blessed by brothers and sisters in Christ.