In this chapter, right after seeing a Philistine woman, Samson decided to marry her, and not only that, he wanted her right now. How could a Nazirite, whose entire life was to be strictly consecrated to God, decide so carelessly and fearlessly on a marriage that would offend God? When his parents asked him to reconsider, Samson only repeated his exact words: “Get her for me, for she is right in my eyes/looks good to me” (Jdg 14:3).

Samson neither listened nor did he care about his parents’ opinion. We do not see him stopping for a moment to consider if he might be wrong. He also constantly hid from his parents the things he did—he tore a lion, but he did not tell his parents (Jdg 14:6); he gave them honey out of a carcass, but again he did not tell them (Jdg 14:9). Likewise, when we conceal our true self and wrongdoings from people whom we know will correct us, we miss the chance to nip our weaknesses in the bud, but instead allow sin to become full-grown, which ultimately brings forth death (Js 1:15). Hence, the Bible reminds us to confess our sins to one another, and pray for one another that we may be healed (Js 5:16).

While Samson himself was extremely strong-willed, his parents’ lenience also contributed to his tragic ending. When the angel announced to Manoah that his wife would conceive in Judges 13, Manoah did not take this for granted. He was worried that he would not bring up Samson right, and pleaded with God to teach them what they, as parents, were to do for Samson (Jdg 13:8). Yet over time, his parents no longer seemed to fear God as they did at the beginning, and did not address his weaknesses with due severity.

In conclusion, Samson’s life was characteristic of the time of Judges when “each one seemed to do what was right in his own eyes” (Jdg 21:25). We too are now living in an era where what is right has become relative and defined by the individual, even in church where all members of the one body are guided by one spirit and truth (Eph 4:4-6), we realise sometimes that every individual is different in the way we each think and do things. Yet the Bible reminds us that: “Every person’s way is right in his own eyes, but the Lord examines the hearts.” (Prov 21:2). May God help each of us to examine our hearts, and pursue what is right in His eyes.

Reflection Questions:

1. Samson was a Nazirite by name, but we can see that none of his actions reflect the special status God has given him. Do we cherish our status as a chosen priesthood, a holy people, and live our days on earth in a way that reflects our calling and proclaims who God is (1 Pt 2:9)?

2. Although Samson was ultimately listed amongst the faithful in Hebrews, the way he led his life renders his salvation a question. Is our salvation likewise a question, or do we have full assurance—that when our flesh is destroyed, we will finally see God for ourselves (Job 19:26-27)?

3. God worked in Samson for His greater purpose, despite Samson’s sinfulness. Do we judge ourselves and others based on physical appearance, their works and results? For example, when a person brings many to believe, do we take that as a sign that God approves of him/her?

4. How often do we keep the commandment of honouring our father and mother, and listen to their advice, especially when it’s actually according to God’s word? Have we begun to show little respect for them, and dismiss their words as nagging?

5. When considering our future spouse, do we prioritise physical attraction above seeking God’s will, like Samson? Do we act on our lusts, instead of exercising self-control over our flesh as we wait for God?