“And the angel of the Lord said unto Manoah, Of all that I said unto the woman let her beware.”
Context:Judges 13 tells the story of Samson’s birth and his calling as a Nazirite. The Israelites had been oppressed by the Philistines for forty years due to their disobedience to God. In this chapter, an angel appears to Manoah and his wife, who was barren, announcing the birth of Samson and giving them instructions regarding his upbringing.
Divine visitation:In this verse, the “angel of the Lord” is speaking to Manoah, Samson’s father. It’s important to note that throughout the Old Testament, the phrase “angel of the Lord” often refers to a pre-incarnate appearance of Jesus Christ. This divine visitation indicates God’s direct involvement in Samson’s life and mission.
Warning and caution:The angel instructs Manoah to ensure that his wife follows all the commands that were given to her regarding Samson. The phrase “let her beware” emphasizes the importance of strict adherence to God’s instructions. It serves as a warning and a reminder that they should not take the divine call lightly or deviate from what God has ordained for their child.
Obedience and consecration:The instructions given to Samson’s parents were to raise him as a Nazirite from birth. This meant that Samson was to abstain from certain things, such as consuming wine and avoiding contact with the dead. The Nazirite vow was a special consecration to God, signifying separation and devotion to the Lord’s service. By following these instructions, Manoah and his wife would be demonstrating their obedience and commitment to God’s plan for Samson.
Application:This verse reminds us of the importance of heeding God’s instructions and warnings in our own lives. It highlights the significance of obedience and consecration to the purposes and callings that God has placed upon us. Just as Samson had a specific role and mission, each of us has a unique purpose in God’s plan. It is essential to be attentive to God’s voice, obey His commands, and remain faithful to the tasks He has entrusted to us.
In conclusion, Judges 13:13 underscores the need for caution, obedience, and consecration in fulfilling God’s purposes. By adhering to God’s instructions, we align ourselves with His will and set the stage for His power and blessings to be manifest in and through our lives.
