Today's Inspiration: Whatever God does, His plan and purpose is not dependent on man's desire or effort but on His mercy. Romans 9:14-15. God's calling is not by works but by Him who calls. V12. In every affliction of the Israelites, God raised up a deliverer from the time of Moses in Exodus 3. He is the Lord who never changes. Malachi 3:6.
For everything God does, He has a purpose. He answered the request of Manoah and his wife for a child and took the opportunity to raise him up as His deliverer of the Israelites who were captive for 40 years. God never missed an opportunity and hence likewise we should seize every opportunity to fulfill God's plan. Judges 13:1-3.
His instructions were clear. He should be a Nazarite set apart for God from birth to be His deliverer. No razor is be made on his head. V5. Israel's plight was due to Joshua neglecting three cities which he felt small and insignificant - Gaza, Ashford and Gath where Anakims lived. Like Joshua we choose to neglect what appears to be insignificant in our life at the time of prosperity and peace. The small neglected seeds left unconquered grew to be monsters of overwhelming power.
Likewise, the pet sins in our life may appear insignificant but if left unconquered will emerge as monsters in our life that will eventually bind us with chains. Therein emerged a story of Samson purportedly to be invincible as he is able to conquer every enemy. But little attention was paid to his lust until it costs him to be in chains and blinded by the truth brought shame and humiliation to himself thereby shaming the name of God. God turned this malice to His glory evetually by putting an end to the Philistines and with it comes the death of Samson.
Do you have pet sins that remained unconquered? Do not neglect them. Pay attention to the little foxes that may spoill the vine. Songs 2:15. Are you struggling like Samson does - in chains for years or even decades that are tormenting you? Till the thoughts of negativity and pet sins are conquered, you cannot be free. We need Jesus to set us free. Galatians 5:1, John 8:36. What are the pet sins in your life? Conquer them before they bring disaster to your home. God be praised.
Prayer; Lord, help us to discern the little foxes in our life that we may conquer them! Let our hearts be pure and blameless in our life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.