“And the woman bare a son, and called his name Samson: and the child grew, and the LORD blessed him.”
Context:The book of Judges is a historical account of Israel during a time when they were led by various judges. These judges were raised up by God to deliver Israel from their oppressors when they repented and turned back to God. Judges 13 introduces the story of Samson, one of the most well-known judges of Israel.
The Birth of Samson:In Judges 13, we read about a barren woman who is visited by an angel of the Lord. The angel informs her that she will conceive and bear a son, and instructs her to raise him as a Nazirite from birth. The woman tells her husband, Manoah, about the angel’s visit, and he prays for the angel to return and provide further instructions. God answers Manoah’s prayer, and the angel appears again to both of them, confirming the previous message.
The Name “Samson”:The woman gives birth to a son, as the angel had foretold, and she names him Samson. The name “Samson” means “like the sun” or “of the sun.” This name indicates the significant role Samson would play in the deliverance of Israel from the Philistines, as his life would shine forth with strength and power.
Growth and Blessing:The verse states that the child, Samson, grew, and the Lord blessed him. This signifies that God’s favour and anointing were upon Samson from his early days. As he grew physically, he also grew in strength and spiritual stature, being set apart for a unique purpose by God.
- Divine Appointment:Samson’s birth was divinely ordained, and his life had a specific purpose. This reminds us that God has a plan for each one of us, and our lives are not accidental. We are created with a purpose, and God can use us in extraordinary ways when we surrender our lives to Him.
- God’s Blessing:The Lord blessed Samson, empowering him with supernatural strength and abilities. In the same way, when we live in obedience to God and seek His will, He pours out His blessings upon us. These blessings may not always manifest in physical strength like Samson’s, but they can include wisdom, favour, spiritual gifts, and anointing to fulfill our calling.
- God’s Timing:Samson’s birth was the result of God’s timing, even though his parents had initially been barren. This reminds us that God’s plans unfold in His perfect timing, not necessarily according to our expectations or human understanding. We need to trust in God’s sovereignty and have faith that He will fulfill His promises at the appointed time.
In conclusion, Judges 13:24 marks the birth of Samson, a judge raised up by God to deliver Israel. The verse highlights the significance of Samson’s birth, his name, and God’s blessings upon his life. It also teaches us valuable lessons about God’s divine appointments, His blessings upon the obedient, and the importance of trusting in His perfect timing.
