Another difference between Samson and Samuel can be seen in their accountability. Samson had an independent attitude and refused to be accountable to anyone else. He was a ‘lone ranger’ who refused to work with others. ‘This time I have a right to get even with the Philistines; I will really harm them’ (Judges 15:3 NIV). The word ‘I’ shows how independent Samson was. God had sent him to help free the Israelites from Philistine rule but he was more interested in his own personal revenge. Samuel, on the other hand, worked alongside others. When he prayed and God gave Israel a spectacular victory over their enemies, he refused to take any of the credit. ‘After this happened Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named the stone Ebenezer, saying, “The Lord has helped us to this point.”’ Samson was ‘me’ focused, but Samuel was ‘us’ focused. The psalmist said, ‘How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity…for there the Lord bestows his blessing’ (Psalm 133:1, 3 NIV). The secret of walking in God’s blessing is not to operate alone, but cooperate with others. That’s how the New Testament church did it. ‘After further threats they let them go…on their release, Peter and John went back to their own people (Acts 4:21, 23 NIV). When the apostles came under attack, they ‘went back to their own people.’ They had relationships in place with those who knew how to advise and guide them, strengthen and encourage them, pray and share God’s Word with them. We need relationships like this too.

What Now?

Do you have someone who can advise, encourage and pray for you? If not, ask your church leader to help find you a mentor.