25 While they were in high spirits, they shouted, “Bring out Samson to entertain us.” So they called Samson out of the prison, and he performed for them.
When they stood him among the pillars, 26 Samson said to the servant who held his hand, “Put me where I can feel the pillars that support the temple, so that I may lean against them.” 27 Now the temple was crowded with men and women; all the rulers of the Philistines were there, and on the roof were about three thousand men and women watching Samson perform. 28 Then Samson prayed to the Lord, “Sovereign Lord, remember me. Please, God, strengthen me just once more, and let me with one blow get revenge on the Philistines for my two eyes.” 29 Then Samson reached toward the two central pillars on which the temple stood. Bracing himself against them, his right hand on the one and his left hand on the other, 30 Samson said, “Let me die with the Philistines!” Then he pushed with all his might, and down came the temple on the rulers and all the people in it. Thus he killed many more when he died than while he lived.
God answered Samson’s prayer and destroyed the pagan temple in spite of Samson’s past. God still loved Samson. God was willing to hear Samson’s prayer of confession and repentance. Then, because of Samson’s confession and repentance, God was able to use him this one last time. God can work through anyone, but it is the most rewarding when there is a repentant and willing soul. One of the effects of sin in our lives is the effect that we may feel like not praying because we lack perfect moral behavior. Did you know that perfect moral behavior is not a condition for prayer? Do not let guilty feelings keep you from the means of restoration. No matter how long you have been wayward away from God, he is standing at the ready to hear from you and restore you to a right relationship with him. Any situation, no matter how bad, can be turned if you are willing. God can work in any situation, just as he did in Samson’s. He can make something worthwhile out of anything.
