Friday, 4th August 2023
Andrews Ampomah
TOPIC: GIFTED BUT RECKLESS
THEME SCRIPTURE: “And she said, “The Philistines are upon you, Samson!” And he awoke from his sleep and said, “I will go out as at other times and shake myself free.” But he did not know that the Lord had left him.” – Judges 16:20
PREPARATORY QUESTIONS:
- Have you been set apart to sin or to live holy unto the Lord?
In Romans Chapter 5, Paul expounds on the doctrine of being justified before God through the grace provided by the death of Christ Jesus on our behalf. In chapter 6, he goes on to urge Christians not to abuse this grace by using it as a licence to persist in sin. Paul expounds on what it means to be united with Christ Jesus in a new life and how it behoves Christians to reflect this new life in Christ Jesus.
Any notion of using grace to indulge irresponsibly in sin is entirely foreign to true Christian doctrine and practice.
Prior to Samson’s birth, an Angel of the Lord appeared to his parents to announce and instruct them regarding the baby, saying, “…for behold, you shall conceive and bear a son. No razor shall come upon his head, for the child shall be a Nazarite to God from the womb… (Judges 13:5).” Samson was chosen from the womb by the Lord to fulfil the mission of judging Israel and delivering them from Philistine oppression. He had a remarkable life of great strength from the Lord. At one time, he single-handedly ripped a lion into pieces (Judges 14:6). He also used the jawbone of a donkey to kill 1,000 Philistines (Judges 15:15). His life was marked with great exploits whenever the Lord, by His Spirit, came upon him. Unfortunately, we note a sad commentary on this unique life of a man in our focus text: “…And he awoke from his sleep and said, “I will go out as at other times and shake myself free.” But he did not know that the Lord had left him.”
This verse signifies the unfortunate moment when Samson lost the presence and strength of the Lord. Why did this happen to Israel’s anointed judge and deliverer?
The answer lies in Samson's repeated defiance of divine guidance as a Nazarite. He allowed himself to be swayed by lust, choosing a Philistine woman from Timnah as his wife (Judges 15:1-3). He also disregarded the restrictions of his Nazarite vow (Judges 15:9). Ultimately, he made the grave mistake of sleeping with a prostitute, leading to his tragic downfall.
Despite his incredible strength and unique calling, Samson's actions deviated from the path of a man who was separated from his mother’s womb unto God, leading him away from God’s strength and presence.
Dearly beloved in Christ, Samson’s life, though gifted, is also one that is characterized by reckless decisions and behaviors, as one who trifled with God’s call on his life. As Christians, we have the privilege of God’s salvation and His manifold graces. We cannot live like Samson. Hence, being responsible to live in, and for the purposes of God is required of us. Are you a husband? You can’t live like Samson. In the workplace are you the boss? You can’t behave anyhow. Are you a leader in church? You have to be responsible. Are you born again? Just live it. Resolve to please your Lord alone each day of your life and you will abound more and more in His grace. God bless you.
FURTHER READING – Judges 16
Call to Salvation: Today is your day if you have not received salvation by turning over your life to Jesus Christ. Click here to do so
QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU MEDITATE ON THE WORD:
- How conscious are you in ensuring you don’t abuse grace by indulging willfully in sin?
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, help me by your Holy Spirit to abstain from any appearance of sin that deliberately seek to abuse grace. Help me to live a life that adheres to Your word and that reflects my new life in Christ Jesus. Amen.
1-Year Bible Reading Plan
2 Samuel 22; Jeremiah 25; Romans 13; Roman 14
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