the Chosen People

Samson Part III: The Wielder of the Jawbone

Samson’s vengeance blurs justice, turning strength into chaos.

<iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/2ovnQHtorqDwZdcOGaseG2?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="152" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe>
Romans 12:21
When does justice stop being just—and start being personal? Samson was chosen to deliver Israel, but his actions often looked more like retaliation than righteousness. Setting fields on fire, wielding a donkey’s jawbone—his story in Judges 14 shows how easily strength, when fueled by rage, becomes destructive. What began as God’s calling slipped into personal vengeance. We know the feeling. When we’re wronged, we crave justice—but our version often comes with bitterness, not healing. Romans 12:21 calls us higher: “Overcome evil with good.” That doesn’t mean silence in the face of wrong—but it does mean choosing mercy over wrath, peace over payback. Ask yourself today: Am I seeking justice or revenge? Let God shape your response, turning moments of conflict into opportunities to reflect His grace. Strength isn’t found in payback—it’s found in restraint guided by love.
sponsored by
Share this devotional:

The Chosen People Devotionals

Death of Moses

Moses’ final moment reveals what it means to trust God—even when the story ends before we thought it would.

Crossing the Jordan

Joshua leads Israel through the Jordan—faith steps first, and God clears the way.

Israel's Memorial

Twelve stones remind Israel—and us—of God’s faithfulness through life’s deep waters.

The Commander of the Lord's Army

Joshua meets the Lord’s Commander and learns surrender is the first step to victory.