“…the Spirit of the Lord began to stir in him…” – Judges 13:25 (NIV)
Obedience creates an environment for God’s blessing.
Just as the angel had promised, the woman gave birth to a son, whom she called Samson. He grew, and the spirit of the Lord began to stir in him as the Lord blessed him (Judges 13:24-25).
What God promised in Judges 13:1-5 was fulfilled. The wife of Manoah was not disillusioned, nor was she mistaken; she saw the angel of God, she brought her husband into the interaction, and together they sought the Lord’s direction in raising this special boy.
Manoah and his wife followed God’s instructions, and “the Lord blessed” Samson as he grew. Obedience positioned their home to be a place where God’s purposes could unfold. Our faithfulness to God’s Word opens the door for His blessing – not just for us, but for the generations that follow.
The Spirit of God was upon Samson, whether he looked the part or not; the obedience of his parents activated the purposes of God in his life. Live in such a way that your obedience becomes the soil in which God’s plans take root and grow.
Manoah and his wife obeyed God and were blessed – their home and community were blessed. In the end, Samson destroyed more Philistines in his last act than he did during his tenure as Israel’s deliverer. Obedience brings blessings.
Prayer
Lord, let my obedience to You create a place where Your blessings can rest. May my life set a foundation for others to walk in Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Read: Jeremiah 17:7; Romans 15:13
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 100; 1 Corinthians 12:27-31; 1 Corinthians 13; Song of Solomon 5; Song of Solomon 6; Song of Solomon 7; Song of Solomon 8