Judges 14:2 When he returned, he said to his father and mother, “I have seen a Philistine woman in Timnah; now get her for me as my wife.”
Samson seems rather impetuous, almost like Varuca Salt from Willy Wonka declaring, “I want it now!” And commentary pointed out several instances where he either directly violated his Nazirite vows (touching the carcass of the lion) or where he put himself in a position where his vows could be easily broken—in a vineyard and at the dinner (having nothing to do with grape products in any form).
Judges 14:4 (His parents did not know that this was from the LORD, who was seeking an occasion to confront the Philistines….)
Even Judges 14:4, according to commentary, is God using Sampson’s rash, ungodly decision to marry the Philistine to further God’s plan. There seems to be nothing in this chapter suggesting that this man set apart for God gave any thought, prayer, or consideration to God’s will for his life. That seems incredibly strange to me.
Judges 14:5 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.
Lord, Thank You for this day, for this scripture, for this reminder of the need to actively align ourselves with Your will. Thank You for pointing us in the right direction if we are only willing to seek Your direction and to listen to Your voice. Thank You for giving us the strength to do what You call us to, even if we don’t really want to do it. Draw us closer. Grant us Your peace and Your strength so we can do Your will. Amen.
Judges 14:6 The Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him so that he tore the lion apart with his bare hands as he might have torn a young goat….
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.