I spent a lot of time this weekend studying the quizzical story of Samson. It’s a puzzler that is full of violence, deceit, and bad relationships. It’s one of those stories that when you are done reading it, you have to wonder how this man could have been a man of God.
But then you realize that he’s a redeemer for an oppressed people. Although he has some serious flaws, he was used by God has a vehicle towards a people that were worshipping other gods and oppressing His people. With that bit of knowledge, it helps explain why he’s in faith chapter in Hebrews 11.
With our post-modern sensibilities, this is still a complicated story. I do like however, the example of how vengeance is really in God’s hands, and not in ours, just like the Romans writer tells us. Our job is to treat our enemy with respect and love. God will take care of the rest, which he does.
18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary:
“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Romans 12:18-20 (NIV)