How does Samson's prayer in Judges 16:28 demonstrate repentance and reliance on God? Samson’s Desperation and Turning Point • Shaven, blinded, and enslaved, Samson has reached the end of his own resources (Judges 16:21). • Earlier he boasted, “I will go out as at other times” (Judges 16:20), but now he realizes self-confidence is futile. • His very first recorded words after capture are directed to God, not to himself or to others—evidence of a changed heart. Judges 16:28 “Then Samson called out to the LORD, saying, ‘O Lord GOD, please remember me. And please strengthen me just once more, O God, so that with one act of revenge I may pay back the Philistines for my two eyes.’” Elements of Repentance in Samson’s Prayer • “Called out to the LORD” — He turns back to the covenant God he had earlier taken for granted (cf. Judges 14:3; 15:18). • “Please remember me” — Admits his need for mercy, echoing other repentant cries (Psalm 25:7; Luke 23:42). • No excuse-making — He does not blame Delilah or the Philistines; he owns the consequences of his sin. • Willingness to die — Verse 30 shows he accepts the cost of obedience, a hallmark of genuine repentance (Romans 6:23). Marks of Renewed Reliance on God’s Strength • Requests strength “just once more” — Acknowledges God as the sole source of power (Psalm 18:1). • Uses three divine titles (“LORD,” “Lord GOD,” “O God”) — Underscores his dependence on the character and authority of Yahweh. • No mention of hair, muscles, or past victories — He has shifted his confidence from symbols to the Sovereign (Zechariah 4:6). • Outcome entrusted to God — He seeks vengeance for God’s enemies, not personal glory (cf. Deuteronomy 32:35). • God answers — Strength immediately returns (Judges 16:29–30), confirming that true reliance invites divine enabling (2 Corinthians 12:9). Lessons for Today • Failure is not final when repentance is real (1 John 1:9). • God hears the prayer that begins with “remember me” and ends with surrendered obedience. • Reliance on God’s Spirit replaces reliance on talent, reputation, or past success (Galatians 3:3). • Even a “last-minute” cry can fulfill lifelong purpose when directed to the Lord (Philippians 1:6). |
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