“Finding a fresh jawbone of a donkey, he grabbed it and struck down a thousand men.”
(Judges 15:15)

"Strength in Unlikely Places: A Reflection on Judges 15:15"

Judges 15:15 captures a striking moment in Samson’s story—when he finds a fresh jawbone of a donkey, picks it up, and uses it to defeat a thousand Philistines. This verse reminds us that God can use the most unexpected tools to accomplish His purposes. It’s not about what we hold in our hands, but who empowers us. When God is with us, even the most ordinary things become powerful in His hands.

Meditation

“Finding a fresh jawbone of a donkey, he grabbed it and struck down a thousand men.”
(Judges 15:15)

At first glance, this verse may seem like just another tale of Samson’s superhuman strength. But there’s something deeply spiritual here—something that speaks to how God works in our own lives.

Samson had been betrayed, bound, and handed over to the Philistines by his own people. But when the Spirit of the Lord came upon him, the ropes around him melted like burnt flax (v. 14), and he found a weapon—not a sword or spear, but the fresh jawbone of a donkey . In the hands of most people, this object was useless. But in the hands of someone empowered by God, it became an instrument of deliverance.

1. God Uses the Unexpected

God has a habit of using unlikely people, tools, and circumstances to display His glory. The jawbone wasn’t a conventional weapon—but it was exactly what God had placed near Samson in the moment of need.

• 1 Corinthians 1:27 – “But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.”

• Exodus 4:2 – “Then the Lord said to him, ‘What is that in your hand?’ ‘A staff,’ he replied.”

Whatever you have—however simple or small—God can use it. It’s not about the tool; it’s about the power behind it.

2. Victory Comes Through the Spirit

The jawbone wasn’t magical. Samson’s strength came from the Spirit of the Lord . When the Spirit moves, even the impossible becomes possible.

• Zechariah 4:6 – “‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.”

• 2 Corinthians 12:9 – “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”

When we face battles, we don’t need to rely on worldly weapons. We rely on the Holy Spirit, who empowers us with strength, wisdom, and courage.

3. God Is Always Present in the Battle

Samson didn’t walk into this fight alone. Even when he was betrayed and surrounded by enemies, God was present . And in that moment, God provided exactly what Samson needed to overcome.

• Psalm 46:1 – “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

• Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not fear, for I am with you... I will strengthen you and help you.”

Whatever battle you’re facing today—physical, emotional, spiritual—God is right there. He sees, He knows, and He will equip you with exactly what you need.

Bible verse of the day

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for being the God who equips and empowers. Thank You for showing me that victory isn’t about what I have, but who I have. Help me to recognize the tools You’ve placed in my hands, no matter how small or unexpected they seem.

Lord, when I face battles, remind me that Your Spirit lives in me. Let me move forward not in fear, but in faith. Use me—even in my weakness—to do things that bring You glory.

Help me to trust You more, to lean on Your strength, and to find confidence in Your presence. May I always be willing to be used by You, however You choose.

In Jesus' name,
Amen.