Monday, July 1, 2024
Samson was one of the leaders God appointed to save the Israelites from other oppressing nations. The angel of the Lord appeared to Samson’s parents, explaining that God had a great plan for their son, and that he must follow certain instructions from God (Judges 13). However, as Samson grew up, he disregarded the rules. Despite his parents’ advice to choose a wife from their tribe and faith, Samson became infatuated with a Philistine woman - the tribe Samson was supposed to deliver the Israelites from. Ignoring his parents’ advice, Samson decided to marry her.
Have there been times when you did not listen to your parents and wish you did? Samson’s parents ultimately acquiesced and they headed to Timnah for the wedding. Along the way, we read about Samson’s first experience of supernatural godly strength as he rips a lion apart. We read about it again after he was deceived by his bride to be and destroys 30 men to pay back the bet he lost (Judges 14:16-19).
After years of dealing with Samson’s incredible feats of strength, the Philistines captured him and gouged out his eyes. In his distress, Samson prayed to God for vengeance against the Philistines. God gave Samson the strength he needed, but Samson died alongside his enemies.
Reflecting on Samson’s choices raises many questions: What if Samson had listened to his parents, followed God’s guidance for living, and upheld his vows? What if Samson had surrounded himself with wise friends, rather than selfish ones? His life might have unfolded differently, potentially allowing God to use his leadership abilities for a greater purpose.
The story of Samson reminds us that, regardless of our mistakes, God can still use our lives for his glory. Our experiences, good and bad, are part of a larger narrative of redemption and purpose. We may not fully see the redemption and purpose in our lifetime, however we can trust that God is using our story.
Hebrews 11:1-2, 32
1 Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see. 2 Through their faith, the people in days of old earned a good reputation.
32 How much more do I need to say? It would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and all the prophets.
Questions:
When have you ignored advice and experienced negative consequences from that action?
How has God used that mistake to help others?
Next Steps:
Samson’s story is in Judges 13-16. Spend time this week reading the entire story.
In your Group or with a trusted friend, consider sharing an incident where you did not listen to advice. You may be surprised that someone else has followed the same path, and others can learn from your mistake.
Prayer:
Dear God, I have not always listened to good advice. Unfortunately, that has led to some negative consequences. When I need to make a major decision, help me to be humble and actively listen. I know that you know best. Help me trust in you and follow you all the days of my life. Amen.
Series Theme Verse:
Psalm 37:3-4
3 Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. 4 Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires.
This post was written by Connie Disbro, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut Devotional.