In what ways can we serve our community like Tola served Israel?

◄ How can we serve our community like Tola? ►

Reading the Text

“After Abimelech, Tola son of Puah, the son of Dodo, rose to deliver Israel. He lived in Shamir in the hill country of Ephraim.” (Judges 10:1)

Snapshot of Tola’s Ministry

• Rose up when Israel needed deliverance

• Acted as a judge—a civil, military, and spiritual leader

• Lived among the people he served (Shamir in Ephraim’s hill country)

• Scripture gives no record of flashy exploits; his faithfulness itself is highlighted

Key Observations

• “Rose to deliver” – initiative; he didn’t wait for someone else (cf. Isaiah 6:8)

• “Lived in Shamir” – presence; leadership from within, not above (cf. John 1:14, Christ dwelling among us)

• Silence on his fame – humble, steady service (cf. Micah 6:8)

Practical Ways We Can Serve Our Community Like Tola

1. Step In When Needs Arise

– Volunteer where gaps exist (food banks, tutoring, crisis pregnancy centers)

– Galatians 6:10 “as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone”

2. Live Among, Not Apart

– Know neighbors’ names, attend local events, open our homes (Hebrews 13:2)

3. Provide Stable, God-Honoring Leadership

– Mentor youth, serve on school boards, city councils, or church committees

– Proverbs 11:14 “in an abundance of counselors there is victory”

4. Protect the Vulnerable

– Support widows, orphans, the unborn, and the elderly (James 1:27)

5. Keep Service Quiet, Faithful, Consistent

– Avoid self-promotion; let God’s approval be enough (Matthew 6:1-4)

6. Anchor Every Effort in Prayer and the Word

– Intercede for local authorities (1 Timothy 2:1-2)

– Share Scripture naturally in conversations (Colossians 3:16)

Motivations for Serving

• Christ’s example: “the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve” (Matthew 20:28)

• Love for neighbor fulfills the law (Romans 13:8-10)

• Eternal reward: “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21)

Promises and Encouragement

• God equips the willing (2 Corinthians 9:8)

• Small acts matter: “whoever gives even a cup of cold water… will never lose his reward” (Matthew 10:42)

• The Spirit empowers boldness and wisdom (Acts 1:8; James 1:5)

Takeaway List

• Notice needs—don’t wait for perfect conditions.

• Serve from within your community, building real relationships.

• Lead with humility, let God get the glory.

• Pair practical help with gospel truth.

• Stay rooted in Scripture and prayer so service stays pure and strong.