When Delilah saw that he had told her everything, she sent word to the rulers of the Philistines, "Come back once more; he has told me everything." So the rulers of the Philistines returned with the silver in their hands. Having put him to sleep on her lap, she called a man to shave off the seven braids of his hair, and so began to subdue him. And his strength left him.Judges 16:18-19
We have relationships with our friends, co-workers, spouses, and family members that add meaning to our lives. God created us to be relational creatures. But he also knew the power of relationships, so he gave us examples of right and wrong relationships throughout the Bible. And few of those relationships show the danger of unhealthy relationships like Samson and Delilah.
Samson knew that he was not supposed to have a relationship with Delilah, but he was drawn to her because he found her exciting, and he knew that he could have fun with her. God appointed Samson to help deliver his nation from the Delilah's nation, but Samson's idea of "fun" caused him to sin against God and put his entire nation in danger.
Often times we find ourselves in toxic relationships because they are fun and exciting at first. But if we continue in relational sin, we will fall just like Samson did. Since relationships are so important to our lives, we must choose them wisely. Our closest relationships should be with people that share our values and encourage us to be better Christ-followers.
God created relationships for us to enjoy. He never intended for us to be bound by unhealthy relationships that drain the life out of us and rob us of our joy. Don't allow yourself to hold on to relationships that will keep you away from God. Instead, focus on those relationships that you will be able to enjoy free of guilt, shame, and sin.
A Prayer for Today
Lord, thank you for the great loving relationships in my life. Help me to get rid of all the toxic relationships in my life, and place good people in path who share my values and will encourage me. In Jesus' name, Amen.
