Behind the Scenes

Then Samson prayed to the Lord, “Sovereign Lord, remember me. Please, God, strengthen me just once more, and let me with one blow get revenge on the Philistines for my two eyes.”

Judges 16:28 (NIV)

We all know the story of Samson and Delilah. We have all heard of Samson’s exploits and how Delilah managed to seduce him. Personally, when I was a child and my Sunday school teacher taught us this lesson, I wanted to be like Samson: to possess his strength to defeat all my enemies. Some aspects of his story make him a hero, while others—particularly his relationship with Delilah—portray him as naive and weak. Yet, that is not the lesson to take away; for by focusing solely on these facets of the narrative, we overlook the One who orchestrated it: God.

When we consider the prophecy foretelling Samson’s birth and the divine requirements regarding his upbringing, it becomes evident that God had a specific plan. What we often forget is that God always fulfills what His word has declared. Even if we stray from the right path for a time, He brings us back to it. What I love most about this story is that, although Samson allowed himself to be ensnared by love for a woman—even while called to carry out God’s will by avenging the oppressed Israelites—he still had to call upon God for the strength to succeed.

Samson’s prayer rested on two essential points: first, indirectly confessing his error ("Remember me"); and second, asking God to help him fulfill His ultimate will. While Samson believed he was avenging the loss of his own eyes, God was concerned with the suffering of His people. Sometimes, God allows us to believe certain things because it does not alter His original plan in the slightest. You may find yourself in situations where you implore God for help or ask Him for the strength to endure your trials; Yet, you do not realize that, behind the scenes of your life, God remains in control and is accomplishing what your eyes cannot see nor your mind comprehend. He sees you and He hears you.

May the grace and peace of God be with you.