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Judges-15

Strength from the Vineyards: A Devotional Study on Judges 15​

Introduction​

The Old Testament book of Judges is a rich narration of Israel's history. In Judges 15, we are introduced to Samson, a hero who demonstrates great strength. Yet, there's much to learn beyond the physical strength depicted in this passage. Let's dig deeper into the profound insights and spiritual lessons found in Judges 15.

Section 1: Samson's Request (Judges 15:1-5)​

Devotional Thought: The Philistines burned down Samson's vineyards as an act of oppression. An angry Samson plead with God for strength to avenge this injustice. Sometimes, as Christians, we instead plead for blessings and comfort, betraying a lack of understanding about God's sovereignty. Mimic Samson's request and beseech God for understanding about His provision in the midst of oppression.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you typically respond to oppression and hardship?
  • What does it look like to have a relationship with God characterized by understanding and grace?

Section 2: Samson's Riddle (Judges 15:6-14)​

Devotional Thought: Samson posed a riddle to his fellow Philistines to test their intelligence and preserve his vineyards. The riddle's answer, "Out of the eater came forth meat, and out of the strong came forth sweetness," symbolizes the paradoxical nature of God's sovereignty. Just as the honey came from the unclean carcass, we too can draw spiritual sweetness from hardships.

Reflection Questions:

  • How have you experienced sweetness from seemingly unclean circumstances?
  • Are you open to learning further about the paradoxical nature of God's sovereignty?

Section 3: Samson's Revenge (Judges 15:15-20)​

Devotional Thought: Samson's riddle-solving wife tricked him into relaying the answer to her people. As a result, Samson avenged his vineyards in a disastrous but victorious manner. Sometimes, we must take unexpected action to right the wrongs in our lives. Like Samson, we too must trust God's provision in our actions.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are you open to unexpected action in righting the wrongs in your life?
  • In what ways do you trust God's provision—whether through peaceful, traditional ways or unexpected, disastrous avenues?

Section 4: Samson's Shame (Judges 15:21)​

Devotional Thought: Samson's shame-inducing haircut allowed the Philistines to bind him in chains. At times, our shame seemingly binds us, and we must learn from this uncomfortable moment in Samson's life. Consider the transforming power of repentance and redemption from situational chastisements.

Reflection Questions:

  • Have you experienced situationally-induced shame and felt spiritually bound?
  • Have you embraced transformation and redemption from your situationally-induced shame?

Conclusion:​

In Judges 15, we're introduced to a man of great strength, yet there's more beneath the surface. Samson's request, riddles, revenge, and shame transport us on a journey to reconsider our relationship with God's sovereignty. By learning from Samson's paradoxical strengthening, we humbly grow in our understanding and relationship with this omniscient and sovereign creator.