All Things

We often talk about Sampson’s demise.  How he was seduced by Delilah and subsequently lost his strength, his natural sight, and his life.  But there is so much more to his story.

In Judges 14:1-9 we learn that Sampson wanted to marry a Philistinian woman.  There is nothing wrong with wanting to be married; however, the Philistines represented everything that was in direct opposition of God and His commandments.  To desire to be “with them” meant a flat out rejection of God and His ways and desires for your life.  Sampson’s parents tried to dis sway the lad, but he was drawn away by the pride of life and the lust of his eyes.

There are two verbs in vs. three used.  The one for please and the Hebrew word is Yashar.  It literally means “to straight”.  The other verb used is well and the Hebrew word for it is Aiyn.  It literally means “to afflict”.  Do you find it ironic that Sampson being drawn away from God by the lust of his eyes and the pride of life, literally set his course to be straightened by affliction that God would allow?

A very familiar passage of scripture that we quote is, “All things work together for the good of those who love Him, and are called according to His purpose.”  (Romans 8:28) You see God does not stop us in that He allows us free will, for we can only prove our love to Him by choosing HIM.  But isn’t it comforting to know that even in our bad choices, that He already knows we will make, He has already mapped out a road that through our affliction of that choice, we will be made straight and upright in Him!

Today I challenge you to let go of the past mistakes you have made.  Look back and see God’s hand at work in your life and over that situation.  Truly seek Him, and Him only, and He will begin to reveal to you how every step was ordered in your life to bring you to an expected end.  Now I know why David wrote, “It was good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statues.” (Psalm 119:71)

Looking back I am glad that You afflicted me, Lord, for had you not; I would never know love like this!

He is standing there waiting on you to come to Him.  He will give you rest.  He will heal your soul.  His yoke is easy, His burden light! And YOU are the object of His affection!