Wasted Potential: Lessons from an Unlikely Hero
Wasted Potential Isn't Just "Out There"
Perhaps a talented child who refused to practice, or a gifted colleague who squandered their abilities. We often lament these situations, seeing the vast possibilities left unfulfilled.
But what about our own spiritual potential?
Are we fully embracing the calling God has placed on our lives, or are we, too, at risk of wasting our divine purpose?
Samson: A Case Study in Spiritual Waste
At first glance, Samson seems to have it all:
- A miraculous birth
- Incredible strength
- A clear calling from God
He was set apart as a Nazarite from birth, one of only three lifelong Nazarites in Scripture (alongside Samuel and John the Baptist). This special vow meant:
- No cutting his hair
- No drinking alcohol
- No touching dead bodies
He was literally born for greatness.
Yet, as we look deeper, we find a man plagued by poor choices and spiritual apathy.
Strong credentials never compensate for weak character.
Flaws That Undermined His Calling
- He was consistently drawn to women who led him astray.
- He had an impulsive nature and a quick temper.
- He showed little spiritual depth—crying out to God only when thirsty or seeking revenge.
Despite this, God still used him to accomplish divine purposes.
God is not limited to our limitations.
This truth both comforts and challenges us:
- It's reassuring to know our failures can't derail God's plan.
- But it should inspire us to greater faithfulness and readiness to be used by Him.
A Sobering Warning
"But he did not know that the Lord had left him."
(Judges 16:20)
This verse should stop us in our tracks.
Could we, like Samson, become so spiritually numb that we don't even notice when God's presence is gone?
God's Persistence Is Our Lifeline
Though the ending is bittersweet, it demonstrates God's grace, persistence, and power to redeem.
How to Avoid Wasting Your Own Potential
Yes, God pursues us. But that doesn’t mean we can coast.
Let His faithfulness motivate deeper engagement.
- Dedicate time for daily devotions
- Find accountability partners
- Discover and use your spiritual gifts
- Mentor others
Be intentional about responding to God's call.
1. Watch for the "Frog in the Kettle"
Stay alert. Take responsibility for your spiritual awareness.
2. Recognize God's Persistence—But Don’t Become Complacent
Let His faithfulness motivate deeper engagement.
3. Craft a Personal "Alertness Plan"
- Dedicate time for daily devotions
- Find accountability partners
- Discover and use your spiritual gifts
- Mentor others
- Practice in ordinary times to prepare for extraordinary moments
Be intentional about responding to God's call.
Our everyday spiritual habits sustain us in crisis.
Living Sacrifices, Not Just Nazarites
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice... Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."
Unlike Samson’s external vow, Paul points us to an internal transformation—one that affects every part of our lives.
Reflect: Are You Ready for God's Call?
- Where might I be spiritually naive or unaware?
- What one thing can I do to be more ready and available for God?
- Am I using the spiritual potential God has given me?
- How can I create a plan to stay alert and engaged?
Don't Waste the Power Within You
The question isn't whether God can use us—He most certainly can.
The real question is:
Will we be awake, alert, and available to participate fully in His work?
Let’s not be like Samson—only turning to God in desperation.
Instead, may we live with vibrancy, purpose, and spiritual readiness.
For when we align ourselves with God's purposes, we tap into a strength far greater than Samson's—the very power of God Himself working through us.