When we start to talk about Samson’s story, it can be easy to say what he should have done and how he should have reacted. Why would you give your secret away to this woman who is so obviously trying to trap you? But I’m learning that when we take a few steps back and ask the Lord for perspective, things can start to shift.
When in my own life have I gone against what is right and true to blend in and be accepted? How often have I chosen comfort or the shiny new thing that I wanted instead of submitting and waiting for God’s timing and God’s way?
Maybe Samson’s story is in some ways a warning to all of us. It’s a reminder of what happens when we choose sin and the things of this world over the strength and mighty purpose of God. And isn’t it just like God to still accomplish His will, even in the middle of the mess that Samson made?
Like the prophet Jeremiah—“You know, LORD; remember me and take note of me” (Jeremiah 15:15)—at the end of Samson’s life, we see him ask God to still bring vengeance and justice despite the situation he got himself in. There at the end of his life, when he had been mocked, embarrassed, and rejected, Samson asked the Lord to give him strength again. Despite the absolute mess that Samson made and the dark end that it came to, God still made His power and glory known to the Philistines (Judges 16:28–30).
It’s easy to think that all the men and women God used throughout the Bible were perfectly spiritual, without blemish or fault. But nothing could be further than the truth. All throughout the Bible, God used broken, imperfect people whose lives were tainted by mistakes to accomplish His will and point others back to Him (Hebrews 11:32–34). How often I need this reminder that God’s power is beyond our understanding—and so are His ways.
While we wrestle with stories like Samson’s and so many others throughout Judges, I’m grateful that we serve a God who stays the same, today and forever. Yes, He is a God of judgment. He is a jealous God. But He also reveals His glory through imperfect people—and for that, I’m so grateful.
At this time is significant to how our hearts should see God’s mercy in the midst of this crisis between Israel and the people in Gaza.
Wow Molly, sister PNW here, thanks for that insight to the extreme Mercy of God. The fact that Samson’s story mentions Gaza, for me at tgis
Such a great lesson! I haven’t been on here for awhile, but this week I’ve started back on my Bible study. Asking for prayers because I’ve had a job opportunity come up and I’m nervous about it. I have anxiety and it keeps me from doing a lot, but this job shouldn’t cause any anxiety issues. I wouldn’t have to be social which one of the main causes of my anxiety! Just asking for prayers that I get the boost of confidence to take this job offer!!
Thankful for His faithfulness towards us
Thank you all so much for the prayers! I am organizing an oil anointing prayer at my home next week. I will let you know when so you can join us. God is good &this just adds to my testimony
Great insights Kristine L! Samson thought he was invincible. God allowed him to suffer the consequences of his pride. In his blindness, he saw for perhaps the first time that God was the source of his strength. When we come to the end of ourselves, God hears and delivers in a mighty way. Oh how it must grieve God. If we would only abide in Him, we could be spared of so much heartache instead of doing what seems right in our own eyes.
I am so thankful!
Such a great lesson of what happens when we rely on our own strength. Everytime I read this story of Samson’s life it makes me grieve for a wasted life but thankful for God’s mercy to Samson in the end.
TINA I’m thankful that there is not a book written about my life with all of my mistakes and sins. I’m thankful that God used imperfect people to accomplish his will! Soooo thankful for His mercy and grace.
Praying for all of you !