Samson

He was one in a series of judges or rulers used by God to deliver Israel from their oppressors. An angel told his parents that the son they were going to have “must not have his hair cut for he shall be a Nazarite, and he will begin to rescue Israel” (Jdg 13:5). Although his parents were diligent in raising their son properly, Samson often did things his way. Although given immense physical strength he lived by fleshly desires and impulses, being careless about honouring God, and at times was headstrong, vengeful, and impulsively immoral and God ultimately forsook him. He ruled Israel from 1075 to 1055 BC. His story is told in Judges 13-16 and mentioned in Hebrews 11:32.

Lessons from his life: * Even though God’s Spirit came upon him mightily, with spectacular results, he did not always credit the power was from God. He used this gift unwisely and did not live as he should have (Jdg 13:25, 16:20,28). What stirs my heart – carnal lust or God’s Spirit? Do I always respond to the Holy Spirit or does my flesh take over at times?

Paul reminds us to ‘put off’’ deceitful desires and John says they are not ‘of the Father’ (Eph 4:22; 1 Jn 2:15-17). The good thing that stirs your heart may be the area of service that God has planned for you. Remember we are answerable to God for the gifts and abilities He has given. Are we using them wisely to advance His Kingdom? Don’t treat lightly God’s call on your life. See it as a privilege to protect and fulfill it.

* Although he had enormous (God enhanced) physical strength which he used for his own gain he had weaknesses in other areas. These included being strong willed with an uncontrollable anger, impulsive and unforgiving nature determined to get revenge, full of pride, and given to self-pity along with an immoral lifestyle (Jdg 14:3,19, 15:1-3,7,15, 16:1). Satan will attack at the weaker, vulnerable areas of our character and personality; giving in will bring collapse to the whole for we are only as strong as our greatest weakness. However in this case it appears God was using this weakness of human passion to bring about His plans, the commencement of bringing relief to Israel from Samson's sinful choice (Jdg 14:4). All our natural abilities and emotions should be under control, not allowed to run rampant but submissive and used for His purposes not ours. Unless our ‘carnal flesh’ is put to death it will likely result in our downfall. How am I protecting and strengthening these areas? Who am I accountable to?

* He was repeatedly pressured or ‘nagged’ to reveal his secret to others who were being manipulated to destroy him (Jdg 16:4-21). Do I share my closest secrets and dreams with anyone or only, confidentially, with those who will encourage, inspire and support me? It is unwise to share your heart’s secrets with casual acquaintances before you have built strong, trustworthy relationships. He became infatuated with Delilah, who came from the enemy nation with whom Israel was not to form close relationships (Ex 34:15-17; Deut 7:1-4). He shared with her the secret of his strength and was betrayed by her to his enemies. We can’t ignore God’s warning and expect to get away untouched. Countless people have been led astray because of ungodly friendships and the subtle peer pressure exerted. We all make mistakes but do not flout or override clear divine directions. God's 'No's' are our protection.

* He didn’t set out to be deceived and end up as a slave in prison (Jdg 16:21,25). The company he kept gradually entangled him until he was in total bondage. All choices have consequences; we are the result of past decisions. It appears Samson’s parents were more dedicated to bringing their son up in the Nazarite way than Samson was to fulfill the role (Jdg 13:8-15). Throughout his life, he had several areas of serious compromise. Each person has to live out his or her own faith. Thank God, if you have had a Godly heritage, however that does not guarantee the continuation. The deposit laid must be reinforced and built on by each successive generation.

* Samson’s God-given task was “to begin to subdue the enemy” and this was completed by David (Jdg 13:5; 2 Sam 8:1). Often major tasks in life are not all accomplished by one person. As in a relay race, one starts and another finishes with several others involved in-between, yet each must do their best for the overall, long-term results. Although he led Israel for 20 years, the Philistines were still a hostile opposition and he eventually became their prisoner (Jdg 15:20, 16:21). Samson would have accomplished lots more if he had remained faithful to God all through his life. Just prior to his death, he humbled himself, realising where his strength came from, and God gave him another chance. While God may be gracious and continue to use us in spite of our stubbornness, it is better to co-operate and obey rather than making amends after rebelling and trying to do things our way (1 Sam 15:22).