Daily Bible Reading, July 2022: God’s Renewing Word of FaithNäide

July 29

Introduction

Israel is now under the control of the Philistines. An angel tells the wife of Manoah that she will become pregnant. The child will be a nazirite, and he will set Israel free from the Philistines. Manoah makes a sacrifice to God. God accepts the sacrifice, and Samson is born.

Scripture Reading

Judges 13:1-25

Today’s Key Verse: Judges 13:24

The woman gave birth to a son and named him Samson. The child grew and the LORD blessed him.

Reflect

Reread verses 3-5. Nazirite comes from a Hebrew word that means “to separate.” Nazirites were not priests. They were people who dedicated themselves to being ritually clean and serving God. This dedication meant that the things they did set them apart from others and they had to follow special rules to show their commitment. Among other things, they were not to cut their hair, drink wine or beer, or have contact with a dead body. They were also to follow laws concerning clean and unclean food (Numbers 6:1-21). What impact did these words have for Manoah and his wife? How do people show their devotion to God today? How do you show your devotion to God?

Prayer

Lord God, guide my actions today, that my love for you may be reflected in the way I care for myself, for others, and for all creation. May your name be glorified through all that I say and do. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Judges 16:4-22: Samson falls in love with Delilah.