Take Home The Gold

Judges 16  
Then she called, "Samson, the Philistines are upon you!"

He awoke from his sleep and thought, "I'll go out as before and shake myself free." But he did not know that the Lord had left him.

21 Then the Philistines seized him, gouged out his eyes and took him down to Gaza. Binding him with bronze shackles, they set him to grinding in the prison.

I'm amazed at how many Olympic athletes continue to break world records. How on earth do these guys improve on a sport that has already been perfected. The strength and endurance displayed by many of these champions seem to defy human ability. No matter the obstacle without, it appears that it can be conquered; but what about the obstacles within?

Samson defeated every enemy on the outside but he failed miserably in defeating his enemy on the inside. He was good; in fact, he had no equal; but spiritually speaking good isn't good enough.

No matter how successful we are on the outside; we will suffer loss until we defeat our enemy on the inside.

Many good and notable Christians fall victim to their own weaknesses everyday. Anger, lust, indulgence, pride, and jealously are some of the internal enemies that we face. Failing to challenge these adversaries will eventually diqualify our efforts and undermine our testimony for Christ.

If Samson had an interview with Howard Cosell I'm sure he would admit, "I could have done more if I had only worked harder on my inner-strength."

1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.

Gods grace and the power of the Holy Spirit can conquer any scheme and vice of the enemy. Just as Satan lurks about looking for someone to devour, God is also ready to draw near when we turn to Him. You are no match for the devil but he is no match for the Lord our rescuer. At the very name of Christ Satan flees.

You can overcome any obstacle when you follow the direction of the master. Regardless of your weakness, no matter your past, you can be victorious through Him.

2 Corinthians 2:14
But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ...

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