Judges Chapter 16
In the very first verse of this chapter, we see Samson, a man who wants to be used by God, but often yields to the temptation of his flesh. Samson like all men and women in the Bible was not a perfect man. He seemed to do what many Christians often do and that is to compartmentalize their life. He let God into certain areas of his life but in other areas he chose to keep to himself and to sin. The choice to deliberately sin always comes with consequences and for Samson he experienced pain and eventually death. Samson had been a hero for the people of Israel in that he annihilated many of the Philistines that had plagued Israel for so long. God had enabled Samson to be a part of His rescue of His people despite his blatant sin.
Let's Reflect
1. Despite the sin of Samson lying with a prostitute, God allowed him to keep his strength. Samson must have learned there were enemies outside waiting to ambush him. What time of night did he get up and escape, removing the gates of the city?
2. The verses that follow tells the events and consequences of Samson falling in love with a woman who was again not a wise choice. He fell in love with a woman named Delilah. What was Delilah in love with? See verse 5.
3. The notoriety of Samson’s strength had spread. The Philistines wanted Delilah to find out what caused his strength so they could eliminate his power and take him out. Delilah made several attempts to find out what it was that gave Samson his strength. What words of persuasion did she try using to get him to share his strength?
4. What was the final answer that Samson gave Delilah when he had become tired of her asking?
5. I have always wondered what made Samson sleep so soundly that he didn’t wake up to his hair being shaved off. My guess is that she gave him strong alcohol to drink. The Bible tells us that Samson thought he was going to get up and defeat the Philistines when Delilah cried out, but this time it was different. What didn’t Samson know?
6. The Philistines held a celebration after gouging out the eyes of Samson and taking away his strength (or so they thought). Who did they give credit to for their “victory”?
7. Samson knew that if he could take out the supporting posts of the building that he would bring it down on all the Philistines gathered as well as himself. What he didn’t know was if God would enable him with strength one more time. Yes, Samson wanted revenge for what they had done to his eyes, but God knew about so many more horrendous things that the Philistines had done to His people of Israel. So, Samson prayed for God’s help once more. Did God answer his prayer?
