August 4, 2010

Before his birth, Samson had been consecrated to God as a Nazirite for the special purpose of judging God's people and delivering them from the Philistines. Samson vowed to abstain from wine and all products of the vine, never to shave his head, and never to touch a dead body. He judged the Israelites for many years, and God enabled him with superhuman strength to destroy thousands of the enemy.

Samson knew that God had given him his strength. It wasn't because he followed the established rules for Nazirites. Others who took the Nazirite vow also did these things. His unshaven head was to Samson the explicit reminder that God was the source of his great power. His confidence in God was proved time and again, and he was named among the great heroes of faith (Heb.11:32).

Samson's impetuous and reckless nature, however, led to his downfall. He succumbed to his passions and yielded to temptation. He visited a prostitute and then fell in love with Delilah, a Philistine woman. Both affairs were transgressions of God's commandments.

Delilah's persistent nagging to know the source of his strength wore Samson down until he finally revealed it to her. The holy covenant between himself and the Lord was broken. Samson's strength left him, and his enemies captured him and put out his eyes.

In prison, Samson's hair grew back, and God restored His relationship with Samson by the return of his strength, but He did not return his sight. In the house of his enemies, Samson's prayer for superhuman strength was answered. He died pulling the house down on himself and 3,000 Philistines. In his death, he saved the Israelites from more Philistines than he had when he'd been alive.

This sobering story makes us grateful that God has given us the way to resist temptation. "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you." (James 4:7-8a). What a wonderful promise He has given to each of us who will be obedient to Him!

1. Is there an instance when you were lulled by a subtle temptation? How did you handle it?
2. What are ways we can keep a watch over our sinful inclinations?
   

About the Author Ellen Poteet Although born and raised a Texan, I’ve lived 43 years in Charlotte and almost qualify for native status. My North and South Carolina ancestors would be surprised to know it was my husband’s job transfer that brought us back to our roots.