May 2, 2012
Judges 15-16:31; John 2:1-25; Psalm 103:1-22; Proverbs 14:17-19 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
I must say I have many questions about this story of Samson. Picked out by God to do his bidding to punish a people. The only place of obedience he seems to need to follow is to not cut his hair. The rest of his actions just don't seem to line up with the word. He is prone to rage. He is extremely lustful. He sleeps with prostitutes. Then sleeps with a lover that he does not marry. He lies, he falls prey to speak what needs be kept to himself at the nagging of his lovers. Yet over and over again God's strength comes over him and he slays the wicked.
What is the take home message of this story? It certainly can't be follow after Samson in his life. All I can see is that God will be God. That despite the wickedness of God's chosen servants His prophesies will be fulfilled.
I guess there is comfort in this. Yet it also breaks my heart. For I live my life looking for God's strength in response to my willingness to live a sacrificial life of obedience. Yet this man lives a life of complete indulgence and is still used mightily. I pray that one day I will understand that even my greatest sacrifice will never mount up enough goodness to earn your affection. It is a free gift. Yet somehow for me to see, experience and sense this free gift I must be obedient to your word. Not clouding it out by my actions.
My rational mind is trying feverishly to understand what only God can speak to my heart. Lord write in clearly on my heart.
Remember Samson's end though and compare it to the end that you will see for yourself. You are right, Samson was used, even as a donkey was used to bring about Father's will, but in the end he was brought down by a woman, losing all he took pride in.
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