The story of Samson is one of the most famous stories in the Bible. His name means sunshine or sunny. He is a ray of light in a dark world. Samson is the last judge. Arguably, he has more flaws than all the others, yet he’s still listed in Hebrews 11. That gives us hope! This week we will look at Samson’s birth.
The Pattern – Hard to Break
In Judges 13:1 we read that Israel again did evil in the sight of the Lord. This verse sums up the book. Their sin is cyclical. Old habits are hard to break. There is no mention of them crying out to God in this chapter, yet He sends Samson. Salvation is God-centered. The Bible says that none are righteous and none seek after God. God makes the first move. Love does not need a reason; it is the reason.
Love does not need a reason; it is the reason.
The Pregnancy – Hard to Conceive
Manoah and his wife (Samson’s parents) were unable to have children. Why is it that some who don’t want children keep having them and couples who love God and want to have children are childless? It is hard to conceive why it is so hard to conceive! What is your life situation? Is there something you deeply desire that has so far been denied? Submit your soul and situation to God. James 1:4 says, “But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” Enjoy the season you are presently in. You may be able to do some things for God now that it will be harder to do later. If you are single, have an empty nest, or have grandchildren, whatever your present season of life, enjoy it! Take all your questions and disappointments to God. His thoughts are not our thoughts, but His will and timing are perfect!
The Parents – Hard to Understand
Samson had good, godly parents, yet he rebelled against everything they taught him. It is hard to understand why this happens. Stop beating yourself up if your child has rebelled! God was a perfect Father to Israel but they sinned. You are not responsible for your adult children’s choices, only yours.
In Judges 13:3 an Angel of the Lord appears to Samson’s mother and tells her that she will have a son who will be a Nazarite and will begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines. Nazarite means separate. He was to take the Nazarite vow. It should be evident to everyone that he is dedicated to God.
There can be temptation to shelter your child from all the harmful influences of this world, but I have seen too many godly parents isolate their kids and when they left home, they went off the deep end! Yes, God demands holiness; but, it does not come from the outside. Holiness comes from the inside. Don’t miss the purpose of the Nazirite vow. God wants us to be different to make a difference!
The Prayer – Nothing is Too Hard for God
In Judges 13:8 and 12, Manoah prays that the Lord would teach him what they should do with Samson, and he prays for Samson’s life and his work. Parents, ask God to teach you what to do. You can’t lead your kids to walk with God if you are not walking with God. Also, ask God to prepare your children for their life’s work and mission. Every child, every person, has a calling and mission in life. God’s got this! Your child does not belong to you; they are on loan from God. Ask Him.
Judges 13:24-25 says, “So the woman bore a son and called his name Samson; and the child grew, and the Lord blessed him. And the Spirit of the Lord began to move upon him….” Pray your kids grow up. Pray your children grow in wisdom, stature, and in favor with God and man. Pray for them to be blessed of the Lord. Pray the Spirit of God will move on them. He will answer your prayers in ways you never dreamed possible!
