“Then the woman came and told her husband, saying, ‘A man of God came to me, and his countenance was like the countenance of an angel of God, very terrible: but I asked him not whence he was, neither told he me his name.’”
Context:The book of Judges records the period in Israel’s history when they were ruled by a series of judges whom God raised up to deliver the Israelites from their oppressors. In Judges 13, we encounter the story of Samson, one of the most famous judges in the Bible. The verse in focus is part of the account of Samson’s birth and the announcement of his divine calling.
God’s Messenger:The verse introduces a woman, Samson’s mother, who encounters a man of God. The description of the man’s countenance being “like the countenance of an angel of God, very terrible” suggests that he had a majestic and awe-inspiring appearance. This encounter indicates that God’s presence was manifested through His messenger, preparing the way for the birth of Samson and his mission as a judge in Israel.
The Woman’s Response:When the woman saw the angelic-like man, she did not inquire about his identity or his purpose. Instead, she returned to her husband and conveyed the encounter to him. This shows her trust and reverence for the supernatural nature of the situation. Her response reflects a humble acknowledgment of God’s presence and her submission to His divine plan.
Lesson of Faith:The woman’s response teaches us valuable lessons about faith and obedience. Despite the extraordinary encounter she had, she didn’t allow curiosity or personal agenda to distract her from the task at hand. She recognized the significance of the moment and faithfully fulfilled her role by sharing the message with her husband. Her example challenges us to trust in God’s leading, even when we don’t fully understand His ways or have all the answers.
Application:As believers, we may not encounter a physical angelic being like the woman in this passage, but we have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us. We should cultivate an awareness of God’s presence in our lives and be sensitive to His leading. Like the woman, we need to prioritise obedience to God’s Word and faithfully share His message with others. We can draw strength from the woman’s response and rely on God’s guidance, even when we face situations that seem unfamiliar or challenging.
Remember, Judges 13:6 highlights the importance of recognising God’s presence, responding in faith and obedience, and trusting in His divine plan. By applying these principles in our lives, we can experience a deeper relationship with God and fulfil His purposes for us, just as Samson did in his role as a judge in Israel.
