What does Samson's experience teach about relying on God for physical needs? Setting the Scene at Lehi Samson has just slain a thousand Philistines with a donkey’s jawbone (Judges 15:15). Triumph quickly gives way to exhaustion and crushing thirst. He cries out, convinced he will “die of thirst and fall into the hands of the uncircumcised” (15:18). The hero who moments earlier seemed unstoppable is suddenly helpless. A Shout of Need, A Spring of Provision “So God opened the hollow place in Lehi, and water came out of it. When Samson drank, his strength returned, and he revived. Therefore he named it En-hakkore, which is in Lehi to this day.” (Judges 15:19) • God answers immediately—no rebuke, no delay. • The source is miraculous: a hollow place where no well existed. • Samson’s strength returns only after he drinks, underscoring complete dependence. • He names the spot En-hakkore—“Caller’s Spring”—a perpetual reminder that God meets physical needs in response to prayer. What Samson Learned—and We Must Remember • Our greatest victories do not insulate us from basic human frailty. • Physical need can push us toward deeper spiritual reliance. • God delights in turning barren places into fountains (cf. Isaiah 41:17-18). • Remembering past provisions (“Caller’s Spring”) fuels future faith. Scripture Connects God’s Reservoirs • Exodus 17:6—“You are to strike the rock, and water will come out of it, so that the people may drink.” • Psalm 34:10—“Those who seek the LORD lack no good thing.” • Deuteronomy 8:3—God used hunger to teach “that man does not live on bread alone.” • Matthew 6:31-33—“Do not worry… But seek first the kingdom of God… and all these things will be added unto you.” • Philippians 4:19—“My God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” • John 4:13-14—Jesus offers water that ends all thirst. Practicing Dependence Today • Acknowledge need quickly—prayer is not last resort but first instinct. • Keep a “memory well”: journal specific ways God has met tangible needs. • Cultivate gratitude at every meal and drink; each sip preaches En-hakkore. • Share stories of God’s provision to strengthen fellow believers’ faith. |
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