SAMPSON: Gifted But Unguarded (Part 1) By Babatunde Olugboji
Two of the most prominent people in the Bible were taken down as a result of lack of self-control concerning women. One was Samson, the other was Solomon. Solomon was the wisest man who ever lived, while Sampson was the strongest man who ever lived. Starting this week, we’ll focus on Samson as we begin a series on the lessons to be learned from his fall.
The narrative of Samson and Delilah (Judges 13–16) represents one of the most dramatically compelling accounts in the Bible. This account has served as a source of inspiration for numerous literary works, visual artworks, theatrical productions, and cinematic adaptations throughout the centuries. However, underlying the theatrical elements lies a profound spiritual admonition: exceptional talent and ability do not preclude the possibility of perilous lack of self-control.
Samson was no ordinary child. Before he was born, the angel of the Lord announced his arrival and declared that he would begin to deliver Israel from Philistine oppression (Judges 13:1–5). Indeed he began the deliverance of Israel, but he never completed it, because he never delivered himself from what eventually took him down. His life had divine purpose before he ever took his first breath. He was set apart as a Nazirite, a man consecrated to God. His uncut hair became the outward sign of that consecration. God placed a calling upon him and empowered him with supernatural strength.
Samson had great power, great potential, and a great assignment. But he also had a great weakness and his weakness eventually overshadowed his strength. Repeatedly, Samson was drawn toward Philistine women despite the danger. Evidently, he was self-unaware. He didn’t count on the fact that he was born to be set apart. Isn’t it shocking that many of those who had the anointing of God upon their life lives carelessly? 
It was seemingly oblivious to Samson that he was different. He could defeat armies, but he struggled to govern his appetites. He could tear a lion apart with his hands, but he could not consistently say no to himself. He could break ropes, gates, and chains, but he could not break the grip of uncontrolled desire. Samson was strong enough to conquer other men, but not disciplined enough to conquer himself.
That is the tragedy of his life. Gifted, but Unguarded
The Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon Samson on several occasions (Judges 13:25; 14:6; 15:14). God used him mightily against the Philistines. Yet Samson gradually began treating holy things casually. And it is dangerous to treat holy things casually. He crossed boundaries again and again. He played with temptation. He trusted his strength more than he guarded his consecration.
And one of the most dangerous things about Samson was this: he kept getting away with it.
That can be spiritually dangerous. When consequences do not come immediately, we may begin to believe there will be no consequences. Samson compromised, and was still strong, he crossed boundaries, he behaved recklessly, but he was still strong.
So perhaps he began to assume that because the power was still there, everything was fine. But never confuse God’s patience with God’s approval. Never mistake gifting for maturity. Or assume that because God is still using you, God is pleased with everything in you.
Your gift may continue functioning while your character is quietly deteriorating. That is why Proverbs 4:23 warns: “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Samson guarded his strength. He did not guard his heart.
To be continued
Have a good week.
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