Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Samson - You Can't Always Get What You Want

Judges 14:4-7 (His parents did not know that this was from the LORD, who was seeking an occasion to confront the Philistines; for at that time they were ruling over Israel.) Samson went down to Timnah together with his father and mother. As they approached the vineyards of Timnah, suddenly a young lion came roaring toward him. The Spirit of the LORD came upon him in power so that he tore the lion apart with his bare hands as he might have torn a young goat. But he told neither his father nor his mother what he had done. Then he went down and talked with the woman, and he liked her.

We sometimes, as parents, do stupid things. Like taking your kids to the grocery store right before dinner time. Not smart. All of a sudden, they want everything in the grocery store. If we don't pay attention, we walk our child right down the street of temptation. You tell your children they can't have any of their Halloween candy, but you leave the bucket out on the counter and then go take a nap. This is what was happening with Samson.

Samson's parents took him down to the vineyards of Timnah - remember, Samson is not allowed wine, yet this was the product of Timnah in the vineyards. Why would they even head that way? While he is there, he is attacked by a lion and the Bible tells us that the Holy Spirit came upon him and he was able to tear the lion apart. But he didn't mention that to his parents.

Are we forgetting to mention the miracles that come from God? Are we moving on in life, doing what we want to do, and never acknowledging the awesome blessings that God has given us? We may not be acquiring enough physical strength to rip a lion apart, but do we realize what a blessing it is to be able to go to work every morning? The strength that He gives us to make it through each day. That we have food to put in our mouths. That we have a free country to vote in. . .

4 comments:

Luanne said...

Came across your site while "surfing"! Enjoyed your post--It is so encouraging to know that He provides the strength--the exact amount--not too much or too little that we will need for the circumstances of the day.

I tended to worry about what the next day would bring--trying to trust HIm in just today!

God bless!

Luanne

Edie said...

Encouraging words Dorothy. I have chosen to Praise Him and Trust Him. He is still in control.

I have always been in awe of that ripping apart the lion with his bare hands. Now that is strength in the Lord!

Kelly said...

Love how you teach through scripture. Really a nice job.

sailorcross said...

Hmmm...again you make me think. I do tend to not share what God is providing for me, what miracles God has wrought in my lie with my children.

They are nonbelievers, and I have tried this before, and I get "the look"--you know "the look"--roll the eyes and the "there she goes again" look!

I do share with other believers, and the affirm what I have believe to be God providing for me, His miracles in my life.

Why don't I share these things with my children? I have tried to and they just give me "the look" and shake their heads.

Maybe I need to pursue this more diligently with them. But, again, fear.

Go away, fear!!

Beth