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Today’s passage from Judges 13–15 tells the beginning of Samson’s story—how he was set apart before birth, how he grew, how God poured out His Spirit on him, and how God used him for His purposes. And yet, I have to admit—I’m not a fan.

After reading yesterday’s post, my wife asked how I could consider Jephthah my favorite judge. I explained that, although the outcome of his story was tragic, his actions were honorable. He was an underdog from the start, but empowered by God’s Spirit, he made a vow that he would carry out should he defeat the Ammonites. And he followed through, even at great personal loss—the sacrifice of his one and only child. I admire him because he’s a picture of God’s sacrificial love—offering His one and only Son for our salvation.

But Samson? As I told my wife, "He’s more of a rascal than a role model."

Samson begins his time as judge by demanding that his father arrange a marriage with a Philistine woman. This violated God’s clear command not to intermarry with the people of the land. And yet, God did allow it in this situation.

Then we read about him encountering the carcass of the lion he had killed earlier. Inside, he found a beehive. He scooped out the honey, ate it, and gave some to his parents—without telling them where it came from. Again, this violated God’s laws. As I read, I found myself thinking, “He’s completely disrespectful—to his people, to his parents, and to God.”

And still, God allowed it. God had a plan. In Judges 13:5, the Angel of the Lord tells Samson’s mother:

“You shall conceive and bear a son. No razor shall come upon his head, for the child shall be a Nazirite to God from the womb, and he shall begin to save Israel from the hand of the Philistines.”

Despite Samson’s disobedience and any confusion it could have caused, God was at work. In Judges 14:3, we read:

“His father and mother did not know that it was from the Lord…”

The marriage arrangement—though ultimately annulled—set into motion events that led to the Philistines’ defeat and ushered in twenty years of Samson’s rule over them.

It reminded me of Joseph’s words to his brothers at the end of Genesis. After their father's death, they feared Joseph's retribution. But Joseph said:

“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.” (Genesis 50:20)

Samson is another example of God’s sovereignty. Even in the messiness of human failure, God is in control. His purposes prevail. He weaves even disobedience into His perfect plan—ultimately for the good of His people and the glory of His name.

Takeaway: Even when a person’s choices seem off-course, God is never off-plan. He can use the rebellious, the flawed, and even the foolish to accomplish His will. Are there places in your life where you doubt God can work through brokenness? Let Samson's story remind you—God's sovereignty isn't limited by our shortcomings.