In what ways can we nurture spiritual growth like Samson "grew and the LORD blessed"? Setting the Scene “Then the woman gave birth to a son and named him Samson. The boy grew, and the LORD blessed him.” (Judges 13:24) Observing Samson’s Early Growth • God-given identity from the womb (Judges 13:3–5) • Parents who obeyed the angel’s instructions (Judges 13:12–13) • Life of separation under the Nazirite vow (Numbers 6:1-8) • Early stirrings of the Spirit (Judges 13:25) Principles for Nurturing Spiritual Growth • Live set apart in Christ – “You are a chosen people…that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him” (1 Peter 2:9). – Reject compromise; pursue holiness (2 Corinthians 6:17-18). • Honor godly instruction – “Train up a child in the way he should go” (Proverbs 22:6). – Receive mentoring from faithful believers (2 Timothy 2:2). • Feed continually on Scripture – “All Scripture is God-breathed and…equips for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). – “Man shall not live on bread alone” (Matthew 4:4). • Walk in daily obedience – “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word” (John 14:23). – Obedience keeps the channel of blessing open (Deuteronomy 28:1-2). • Depend on the Holy Spirit – “Be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18). – “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). Practices to Position Ourselves for the LORD’s Blessing 1. Dedicate the day to God upon rising—affirm your identity in Christ. 2. Schedule unhurried Scripture intake and meditation. 3. Fast or abstain periodically to keep appetites submitted, echoing Samson’s Nazirite separation. 4. Invite Spirit-led guidance in every decision; pause and listen before acting. 5. Serve using your spiritual gifts (Romans 12:6; 1 Peter 4:10); blessing multiplies in service. 6. Guard humility and vigilance—Samson’s later failure warns us (1 Corinthians 10:12). 7. Regularly recount answered prayer and victories to keep gratitude fresh (Psalm 103:2). Encouragement for Ongoing Growth Samson’s childhood shows that growth and blessing flow from identity, obedience, and Spirit-empowerment. Follow the same pattern: stay set apart, honor the Word, and rely on the Spirit. As “the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon Him” (Luke 2:40), so the Lord delights to develop His people today, shaping us into powerful instruments for His glory. |
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