Re:Verse passage – Judges 16:15-21 (day five)
Samson’s story is tragic to say the least. Yet, he is listed in the “Hall of Faith” found in Hebrews 11 (vs 32). Wait? Wasn’t Samson faithless? Well, he believed the prophesy and promise of God. Samson knew his strength came from God. He trusted that God would provide that strength when he needed it. Every act Samson did could have been seen as an act of faith. But in the midst of his faith, Samson began to think more highly of himself than of God. So what was missing?? I believe it was love. “And if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.” 1 Corinthians 13:2 Samson didn’t have a love for God, which produces the fruit of obedience.
I close with a quote from Jon Bloom, “So let Samson’s faith soberly remind us that our spiritual or talent gifts are not God’s endorsement of us, that faithful obedience is better than impressive giftedness.” And that faith must be governed and balanced by a vibrant and deep love for the Lord.
Scott, thank you for this……A deep, abiding love of our Lord and Savior should be at the very core of who we are which produces faithful obedience.