Daily Readings

Samson was the only judge without an army.  All his exploits were performed alone.  What does this tell you about the moral and spiritual condition of Israel?

What attitude did the men of Judah have over the Philistines? How was this different from their attitude towards previous oppressors?

What characteristics stand out in this narrative?  Is he to be admired?  Why or why not?

Note the contradictory elements in Samson’s character. He was a judge yet his dubious behaviour with Philistine women betrayed a lack of discipline and holiness.  How important is it for our Christian behaviour to be consistent with our Christian beliefs?

Samson was physically endowed with tremendous strength. But what was his social life like?  What was wrong with taking honey from the lion’s carcass (v 8f)? The feast may have included wine which Samson was not permitted under the Nazirite vow (see 13.4).  What does this tell us about Samson’s character?

On what grounds did Samson’s parents object to his choice?   How important a factor is this to you?  (See also Genesis 24.3-4; 2 Corinthians 6.14-16).