Judges 16-18 – April 5

Once again we see the term Nazarite – a Hebrew word meaning “consecrated” or “separated” which during this time, one was not to cut his hair or drink wine. However, it seems that normally, a Nazarite is only for a period of time but with Samson, we see that it can also be for a lifetime. Another thing that I am just now getting a picture of and that is that Samson was actually a judge for Israel. Even during all of his battles and carousing, Samson had to be a judge for his people. And how do you trust a woman that has 3 times tried to hand you over to the enemy?

 But the phrase that caught my attention was, “the Spirit of the Lord came upon him mightily” (14:6, 19, 15:14). In his consecrated state and when the Spirit of the Lord came upon him mightily, Samson not only defeated his attackers, but he went after them. With that kind of power, he went looking for a fight.

 I am encouraged, because I know that that same Spirit dwells inside of me when I also maintain consecration. I separate myself from things that are contrary to God and His Word, then I can not only defeat my attackers but I can go on the offensive as well. I picture this as interceding. Intercessors go looking for a spiritual fight because they know that the Spirit of the Lord moves IN them mightily. Don’t forget and don’t underestimate your God given abilities!

 Ephesians 3:16 that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man,

 John 14:12 Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do also; and greater works than these he will do; because I go to the Father.

 James 5:16 The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.