Judges 14:10-18

The story progresses as Samson's father went down to visit this girl and her family. Samson gave a great feast to honor the event. The Philistines also commemorated the event by assigning 30 men to Samson to act as his groomsmen. Samson's vanity and his pride made him "boast" to these men in the form of a riddle and a reward. These 30 men were not loyal to Samson and given the means by which they were included were more loyal to themselves and their people rather than this outsider who was brash and powerful. The 30 were posed a question that referred to the slaying of the lion and eating of the lion which would only be known to Samson alone. They weren't able to answer this due to the personal nature of the question so they asked his wife-to-be. It was implied, according to the commentary, that she and her family would be threaten if she couldn't provide the answer. She had no clue as well since he never shared this incident with her. This was not just a wager for them to win but they also stood to lose the same as well so it was incumbent for them to get their answer quickly. She in turn begged and nagged Samson until he gave in and told her. She, in turn, told the 30 who relayed the answer to Samson. When Samson heard the answer, he knew that his wife betrayed his confidence.

This is a classic story of pride goeth before the fall. Samson had everything going but one thing - trust and a deep relationship with the Lord. He violated almost every rule - except one (the hair, to this point) and as a result allows his perceived strength and leadership skills to dictate his behavior. But aren't we all like that in our own ways? We do what we like, when we like and whenever we like. I know for myself that I am guilty often of this - not a good trait....

Decent day at work. Glad GG made it back ok. Still at peace with Thursday.

Praise for today: The Lord reigns, let the earth be glad; let the distant shores rejoice.