In what ways can we seek God's purpose in life's unexpected events? A surprising scene in Samson’s story “After some time, when he returned to get her, Samson turned aside to see the carcass of the lion, and there in the lion’s carcass was a swarm of bees and some honey.” (Judges 14:8) • Samson expected decay, not dessert. • God used an unlikely setting—a dead lion—to provide sweetness and strength. • The narrative is historical, factual, and reveals that God directs events, even odd ones, for His purposes. Looking beyond the surface • The lion symbolizes a threat already conquered; the honey represents unexpected provision. • God’s hand is often hidden in what looks ruined or useless. • What seems a detour can become a source of nourishment for the journey ahead. Practical ways to seek God’s purpose in the unexpected • Pause and notice. Samson “turned aside.” We need deliberate moments to look for God’s fingerprints. • Recall past victories. If God handled the lion, He can handle today’s surprise. • Submit your interpretation to Scripture’s truth; feelings follow facts, not the other way around. • Give thanks immediately—gratitude sharpens spiritual sight. • Share the honey. Tell others how God met you; testimony multiplies faith. • Stay obedient even when the setting feels unclean or confusing; holiness is portable. • Stay humble—Samson’s later pride shows the danger of forgetting the Source. Encouragement from the rest of Scripture • Romans 8:28—God orchestrates “all things” for good, not just pleasant things. • Genesis 50:20—What people mean for evil, God turns for saving purposes. • Proverbs 3:5-6—Trust, acknowledge, and He will straighten the crooked path. • James 1:2-4—Trials produce endurance, finishing God’s work in us. • 2 Corinthians 4:17—Momentary troubles prepare “an eternal weight of glory.” Honey for today Life’s carcasses—job loss, illness, canceled plans—can hold divine honey. Turn aside, expect God, taste what He provides, and carry that sweetness forward to strengthen others. |
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