As we look at the life of Samson, we see that he had great faith in the strength of God. The Holy Spirit would fill him and he would receive supernatural physical strength to defeat his enemies. Later in his life, due to his disobedience, the Lord chose to take the power of the Spirit away from Samson and he lost all strength (see Judges 16:20). He then prayed for God to fill him again so that he could pull down the foundational pillars of a temple and crush the enemy. Perhaps you do not realize how much this story applies to us today. The Lord wants us to pray for physical, emotional, and spiritual strength to accomplish great works for Him. We are reminded throughout the New Testament that we are in a battle (see Ephesians 6:10-18) against the enemy. Through prayer and the use of God’s Word, the Spirit can fill us with supernatural power to defeat Satan and accomplish God’s Kingdom purposes. “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes” (Ephesians 6:10-11).
When we receive Christ, we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit. However, we are called to pray in order to be filled with the Spirit’s power to accomplish His purposes (see Galatians 5:16). In our own strength we will have limited power. But just as Samson discovered with God’s strength all things are possible! When we don’t rely on the power of God, we become open targets for Satan’s attacks. He knows us more than we know ourselves. He has observed us and our families for generations and knows our vulnerable areas. This is where Satan will attack in order to distract us from trusting and serving God. We are told to pray about everything and constantly depend on the Lord’s strength and wisdom, not our own. “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests” (Ephesians 6:18).
One of the names of God, El Shaddai, means “Strength, our Strong Provider.” As God is our Creator and Lord, there is nothing that He cannot do. He also gives us the ability and faith to accomplish His will for our lives. This is why Paul says: “I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13). As Samson demonstrated great acts of strength in the power of the Spirit, Paul displayed amazing strength with his faith and perseverance through persecution and trials. Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you today with all the strength you need to accomplish His will. Take time to worship your strong Savior in your devotional time today. “I love you, O Lord, my strength” (Psalm 18:1).
Today’s Bible Reading: Psalm 18; Judges 16; Ephesians 6:10-18
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