Instructions Included

By Reverend Michael Farias

Samson is a well known Bible hero. Most people know him as the long-haired guy with super strength.

Less known are Samson’s parents. His dad is Manoah, and we are not even given the name of his mother. Nevertheless, these people are heroes in my book.

Of particular focus today is Samson’s dad, Manoah.

As the story goes, Manoah’s wife was unable to bear children, that is, until the Lord appeared to her with a word and a promise. The word was, she would have a son. The promise was, he would be a deliverer of Israel, a champion, a warrior, and a hero.

The woman told her husband the good news, that they would have a special boy. But Manoah appeared to be uncomfortable with this news, and immediately needed more information.  

Judges 13:8 - Then Manoah prayed to the Lord and said, “O Lord, please let the man of God whom you sent come again to us and teach us what we are to do with the child who will be born.” (ESV)

Manoah believed the Word of the Lord and the exciting news, but he was challenged. He didn’t want to blow this once in a lifetime opportunity.  He wanted to get it right.  After all, this was to be a miracle birth, so he petitioned the Lord and asked for instruction.  He wanted to be taught.

Many things in life don’t come with instructions. Buyer beware if the product you purchase that needs assembling doesn’t come with instructions.  Worse yet, the product includes instructions, but they are not followed.

Manoah knew that he needed help and did not hesitate to ask the Creator for training concerning his creation.

We are told that the angel of the Lord appears to Manoah. Judges 13:12 - And Manoah said, “Now when your words come true, what shall be the boy’s manner of life, and his vocation?” (AMP)

I don’t know about you, but I think this is absolutely outstanding of Manoah.

There was no doubt in his mind that the Word would come to pass.  That wasn’t the issue or concern. Notice he says “when your words come true.” That’s settled, it’s a done deal.

His worry was how to pull it off.  What do we do? How do we raise him?  How do we prepare for the amazing future you have in store for this family?

These are great questions. And these are the questions that as believers, and as recipients of God’s miracle of being born again and having new life in Christ, we too need to ask.

How do I do this thing called Christianity, and do it right, and do it well?

Thanks be to God who has seen fit to give us the Bible as our instruction manual.

Samson was successful in his calling, ministry, and life because his dad asked for instructions.  

Instructions for a successful Christian experience are available to us, and are not optional. It is our mission at Greater Than Gold to provide you with quality Bible study materials designed to guide you through the Bible’s instructions. Click here to learn more or view our full collection of studies.