As we look at the life of Samson, we see a man whose primary focus is centered on himself instead of God’s plan. When one doesn’t get with God’s plan, one doesn’t have much of a future. Judges 14:3-4a - Samson goes to the Philistine city of Timnah seeking a pagan bride. ‘Get her for me, for she pleases me.’ But his father and mother did not know that it was of the Lord.” How can this be the will of God? Perfect Will of God vs. Permissive Will of God There are certain things God really wants for us, but we can sacrifice the for something not so good, and God will allow it. His purpose will still be accomplished, but the results of our actions will have a much different effect upon us. Judges 14-16 - Samson continually positioned himself in compromising situations leading him to break all three portions of his Nazarite vow (the dead lion, the drinking party, the bet, murdering to fulfill the bet, revenge with a donkey’s jawbone, illicit sex, ungodly partners) By pursuing his pleasure instead of God, Samson brought and destruction into his life. Samson’s prayer life existed only in . Samson gave up on the prophecy of delivering Israel from the Philistines. He wanted to die because his future seemed than his past. Faulty Future Viewpoints Not a lot of time 1 Peter 2:9; Joel 2:28-29 - as a royal priesthood, we all have a holy calling that has no expiration date. God will pour out His Spirit on all people - even the old folks - “Your old men will dream dreams.” Running on a : work > home > sleep > repeat * God created us for more than making a living - make a life worth living. * Purpose comes from pressing into prayer. Living for our own pleasure, not God’s Get onboard with God’s plan regardless of how much time you have left, no matter how much you’ve wasted. Samson’s life is a lesson in unrealized potential and sin’s ability to it.