Strength for Heroic Action

Life seldom advances on a smooth continuum but alternates between highs and lows that may test our ability to cope. In the middle are the normal days when we carry on with just making a living. Even so, each person will eventually encounter situations that call for heroic action.

We’re aware that heroes are “created by popular demand,” as Gerald Johnson writes in his book, American Heroes and Hero Worship. Samson is not portrayed as a hero, yet he was God's chosen man, and it appears he may have lived his life for that moment when he gave his life to destroy Israel’s enemy. 

Samson knew God was the source of his strength, and by faith he committed his life to that truth. If you need God’s strength for what you’re facing, seek his forgiveness and cleansing, then determine to live the rest of your life for him. God will renew your strength so you can fulfill his purpose for you. His inner peace and security will be your reward. 

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Before I was born, the Lord appointed me; he made me his servant to bring back his people, to bring back the scattered people of Israel. The Lord gives me honor; he is the source of my strength.

~Isaiah 49:5 Good News Bible

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Arrogant Pride and Passionate Anger

I'm sure Samson's parents were proud of him for several reasons. He was chosen by God to be a judge over the Israelites. What his parents’ guidelines and boundaries were for him as a child and adolescent can’t be known, but Samson’s lifestyle as an adult did not correspond with the lifestyle of one called to serve God with his gifts and talent.

Samson seemed unwilling to place boundaries on his angry impulses driven by violent thoughts. He was prideful and incapable of recognizing his complicity in the tragedies he experienced. He resorted to blaming others indiscriminately for his personal losses.

Unhealthy pride and passion victimized Samson by cutting him off from the potential God initially planned for him. Listen to Ephesians 4:31. "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander along with every form of malice. Instead be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other just as God in Christ forgave you.” What may seem impossible becomes possible with God’s help.  

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What do you think the Scripture means when it says the Holy Spirit, whom God has placed within us, watches over us with tender jealousy? But he gives us more and more strength to stand against all such evil longings. As the Scripture says, God gives strength to the humble, but sets himself against the proud and haughty.

~James 4:5-6 The Living Bible

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A Clear Conscience: Essential for Self-Respect - Part 2

Samuel, the last judge to rule the people of Israel, was a man of constant faith and unrelenting readiness to take appropriate action whatever the circumstance. As a man of integrity, he had respect for his people, an essential virtue for effective leadership. He saw his nation through a transitional phase of leadership styles.

Samuel was incorruptible and served God as a man of unbendable faith. The foundation for his faith and actions was an unquestionable belief that he was chosen by God to be a judge and priest as well as a role model for future leaders. Samuel unhesitatingly carried out what God directed him to do, regardless of how drastic it seemed to others.

A clear conscience is essential for self-respect and good judgement, yet everyone is vulnerable to violating their conscience. However, sincere acknowledgment of sins, confession of those sins to Christ Jesus, and seeking forgiveness will cleanse the conscience. Making amends is crucial, for it honors God and builds self-respect.