Greetings,
Predicting outcomes in life is filled with an infinite number of possibilities. Historic comebacks in many settings, from baseball to dead plants, testify to its revival spirit. But do you know there are comebacks experienced in the Christian life too? Remember Samson; according to the Biblical narrative, in Judges Chapters 13-16, Samson performed incredible feats of superhuman strength. (Please take a moment to read about it). Samson was born a Nazarite. According to Nazarite rule, commitment is in the unique service of God, usually through a vow of abstinence from solid drinks, shaving or cutting one's hair, or contact with a dead body (Brittannica.com).
The Biblical narrative also expresses that he was one of the last leaders who judged Israel before the institution of the monarchy. When the final bell had rung for him, or so his enemies believed, God revealed a more excellent plan for Sampson, a comeback among comebacks.
So what makes Samson's story so interesting? In particular, Samson trusted a woman named Deliah, who he loved, a woman of ill repute, the secret of his strength, his long Nazirite locks. The biblical narrative expresses that when Deliah learned of his secret, while he slept, she had his hair cut and betrayed his confidence.
Although Samson is a mighty fortress in God, the moral lesson for contemporary Christians warns about putting out trust and hope in others. God explicitly reminds us that we are weak, but He is strong. However, the story doesn't end with Samson's loss of power and seemingly defeat.
The narrative in Judges 16: 28-30 reveals the incredible comeback. It says that after his enemies cut his hair, the Philistines saw it growing back, and they blinded Samson because they wanted to mock Samson for personal entertainment.
Because Samson lacks confidence in his ability and strength of his secret uncovered, he says and does this in verses 28-30:
28 And Samson called unto the Lord, and said, O Lord God, remember me, I pray thee, and strengthen me, I pray thee, only this once, O God, that I may be at once avenged of the Philistines for my two eyes.
29 And Samson took hold of the two middle pillars upon which the house stood, and on which it was borne up, of the one with his right hand and the other with his left.
30 And Samson said, let me die with the Philistines. And he bowed with all his might; and the house fell upon the lords and all the people therein. So, the dead which he slew at his death were more than they which he slew in his life. Now that is a comeback!
But more importantly, Samson's story teaches that our dependence on God is not a dependency operating through our own strength and power but requires God's strength and power.
More insight reveals that even when we stray from God's plan, He is still in our corner, waiting for us to ask again for His help.
Remember these words from Proverbs 3:5-7.
Trust in the Lord with all thine Heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord and depart from evil.
Servants Heart,
Minister Sylvia Joyner
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