April 2, 2016: SOAP #2312:

Scripture: Judges (NIV) 16:23 Then the lords of the Philistines gathered them together for to offer a great sacrifice unto Dagon their god, and to rejoice: for they said, “Our god hath delivered Samson our enemy into our hand.” 24 And when the people saw him, they praised their god: for they said, “Our god hath delivered into our hands our enemy, and the destroyer of our country, which slew many of us.”

Observation: The Philistines mistakenly believed it was their god, Dagon who brought them victory. But it was Samson’s sin and disrespect for God’s special gift of empowerment that brought defeat to Samson.

Application:  The effects of sin are like the tentacles of an octopus that reach out in all directions. My sin not only affects me; it also affects those nearby. Those who should be convicted by my righteous life are actually emboldened to continue in their sinful ways! And how can I ever forget how my sin affected God the Father and His Son!

Prayer:   Lord, forgive me for taking sin so lightly. I do not want to ever give your enemies cause to think that their god brought them victory. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!