"So the woman came and told her husband, saying, "A Man of God came to me, and His countenance was like the countenance of the Angel of God, very awesome; but I did not ask Him where He was from, and He did not tell me His name. And He said to me, 'Behold, you shall conceive and bear a son. Now drink no wine or similar drink, nor eat anything unclean, for the child shall be a Nazirite to God from the womb to the day of his death.'" Judges 13:6-7
This unnamed woman was married to Manoah of the tribe of Dan. They lived in Zorah, near Jerusalem. Manoah and his wife were devout believers. On one ordinary day she was met, while sitting in the field, by an angel of the Lord who prophesied that she would bear a son who would one day deliver Israel from the Philistines. Her faith was evident in that as soon as she was given this message she ran to her husband to tell him of the wonderful news.
You see, they had no children but had prayed for a baby for many years. She had been humiliated; bearing the shame of barrenness of that day. On receiving this news Manoah made an offering to God on the spot, and as the flame went up, the Angel went with it, scaring them so badly they fell on their faces. (Judges 13:19-20)
Their promised son, Samson, was born and chose a lifestyle of the world, but God used him anyway to fight the Philistines. His name is found with the heroes of faith in the book of Hebrews.
Samson's mother was confident in her faith. After years of heartache and disappointment she rejoiced in her motherhood. I know she must have grieved over her son's disobedience to God, but as a praying mother God heard her diligent prayers.
Manoah's wife and Samson's mother will be remembered for her strong faith in God and her testimony of obedience even in difficult times. We should not only listen for God's direction but also obey Him even in the smallest details. God's holy angels are poised to bring about His will even when least expected.
I love you & He loves you more!
Dear Lord, May I listen for Your direction and obey every detail. Thank You for blessing this woman of the Bible with the desire of her heart and allowing us to see just a small part in how she lived her life for You. Help me to be still and listen. In Jesus' name. Amen.