The Philistines had finally found out where Samson’s strength lay. They realized that
he had been dedicated to God from the day he was born and that his hair was a sign
of the Nazirite vow. Now Samson was their prisoner; blind and in chains, grinding
grain in the prison. But his hair, which had been cut, started to grow again.
The Philistine kings got together to celebrate their victory over Samson, and
said, “Let’s get Samson here to entertain us.” When they brought Samson out he
asked the servant to put him between the pillars that support the Temple.
Samson prayed to God and said, “Remember me, O God. Please make me strong
just one more time.” Then Samson put one hand on each pillar and pushed with all
his might… and the whole Temple came crashing down. Samson died with the people
and killed more Philistines that day than he had during his whole life.
Judges 16:23-30
If God stopped using everyone who sinned, made a mistake, or went the wrong way, there would be no one left to use. All of us have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23). Even the apostle Paul said, “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me” Philippians 3:12.
Even though Samson had messed up, God was still able to use him. In the end, Samson turned to God because he knew where his strength came from. Maybe he had not prayed for a long time, but God saw his faith and answered his prayer. In the New Testament, Samson is even mentioned for his faith, together with others like Gideon! (Hebrews 11:32-33).
Verse for today
Therefore this is what the LORD says: "If you repent, I will restore you that you may serve me.” (Jeremiah 15:19a)
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