Judges 13 -- The Promise And Potential Of Samson

We're introduced to Samson in this chapter.  Israel was experiencing "the longest period of oppression that God sent to His people -- 40 years of Philistine domination ... There is no evidence given in the text that Israel cried out to God for deliverance at any time during the 40 years of Philistine domination."

My commentary called him "the child with unbelievable promise," which included having a nation to protect, a God to serve, and a home to honor, yet Samson's inconsistent life brought shame to his father's house just as it brought shame to the name of the Lord.

His great strength, sourced by the Holy Spirit of God and continued by keeping his Nazirite vow, was "a weapon to fight with and a tool to build with, not a toy to play with," my commentary said.  But he did anyway.  He was a loner.  He never rallied troops.  He never acted like a leader.

The next three chapters will reveal the sickening results of his lifestyle choices, despite his Nazirite vow.

Father, there was so much potential in this child, yet it was never fully realized.  Help me to realize the potential still waiting to occur in my own life, and to step into the future You have designed specifically for me.  Also, help me to help our young people to discover the potential You have graced them with, and help them to realize it as well.

 

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford