More Lessons from Samson & Delilah & a quote from Maya Angelou
Samson & Delilah
Today, we’ll learn a lesson from Samson; a lesson that can best be summoned up in a quote from Maya Angelou.
“When someone shows you who they are; believe them the first time.” – Maya Angelou
In Judges 16, Delilah showed Samson exactly who she was. A woman who couldn’t be trusted. A woman who didn’t have his best in her heart. She was the opposite of the woman described in Proverbs 31:11 , “Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value.”
After Delilah had shown Samson her selfish self, Samson should have believed her; known that was the woman Delilah was. They say love is blind; I guess Samson was blind-sided.
Being a person who naturally looks for the best in others, a person who gives another many, many chances, this is a lesson I really need to pay attention to. When I really like someone, my heart will convince me to ignore the traits that don’t line up with God’s word. Excuse it. Call it immaturity or a mistake.
When I see a character flaw in another, I need to learn to not ignore it. Not that I don’t forgive when that character flaw results in an offense against me, but I do need to be wise. I need to recognize when a person’s weakness means proclivity toward an unhealthy relationship in the future.
I want to teach my girls to not ignore what shouldn’t be ignored. When you see someone being dishonest, pay attention. Dishonesty will ruin a relationship. If you spot a person choosing themselves over you over and over again, make a note. Selfish will effect your relationship. If you can’t trust her in the beginning of your friendship, chances are it’s not going to get better.
And “when someone shows you who they are; believe them the first time.” When your heart is consumed, your brain wants to ignore, but don’t. Keep your eyes open to what you see and your ears open to the direction of the Holy Spirit…no matter how cute he is!
Thank you so much for this. I am very much a Samson in this area and unfortunately it has led to some rough relationships that I should have run from in the beginning. But it is a lesson I am learning albeit slowly. Thank you again for the reminder.
Thanks Debbie! The great thing is we are learning! And while we learn, we can teach our kids. They might not take the learning now, but maybe, when they run up against a character trait that concerns them, these words will come back to mind!
If I could turn back the hands of time… unfortunately it’s too late. The tell tale signs were there but I chose to follow my heart. Now I have to live with my poor choice and the regret of never allowing logic to prevail.
Nomcebo – we all have stories like your’s. At least I do. I also know we have a God who says He can take all things and make them new. You need a new and He can bring it!