Transformed – teen devotion – February 7, 2021
Samson went down to Timnah and saw there a young Philistine woman. When he returned, he said to his father and mother, “I have seen a Philistine woman in Timnah; now get her for me as my wife.” His father and mother replied, “Isn’t there an acceptable woman among your relatives or among all our people? Must you go to the uncircumcised Philistines to get a wife?” But Samson said to his father, “Get her for me. She’s the right one for me.”
Judges 14:1-3
Squad problems: Self-destructive
The Question: What should I do when my friend is involved in self-destructive behavior?
The struggle is, “How much does God expect me to do?” Samson’s father gives us some answers.
First of all, God wants us to be a good influence. You can encourage your friend with words and remind them what is God pleasing. You can also influence them by letting your good behavior rub off on them. BE CAREFUL! Don’t let their bad behavior influence you.
Second, know that you are not responsible for your friend’s behavior. God wants you to influence, warn, and love, but at the end of the day, your friend is responsible for their own actions.
Finally, pray and give thanks. Pray that God would lead your friend to change their ways. Pray that God would give you the right words to say and make you a good influence. Pray that God would use this situation for your friend’s good. And give thanks that Jesus has died on the cross for your and your friend’s sins.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I pray for friends of mine who are caught up in self-destructive behavior. Thank you for your promise never to leave or forsake them and to work this moment of life for their future good. Assured of your love for them, guide my words and behavior to reflect my love for them and the power of Christ to assist and save them. Amen.
