Scripture of the Day: Judges 16:23–30
16:30 “So the dead that he killed at his death were more than those who he killed in his life.”
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In Judges 16:23–30, the Philistines celebrate, believing their god has defeated Samson’s God. They bring him into their temple as entertainment. The once-mighty judge is now mocked.
But something quiet has been happening. Scripture tells us earlier that Samson’s hair began to grow again. This small detail signals hope. Growth takes time. Restoration begins quietly.
Standing between the pillars, Samson does something different from many earlier moments in his life. He calls out to Yahweh. “Remember me… strengthen me, please, just this once.” There is humility in that prayer. There is dependence.
Samson no longer relies on his own ability. He asks for strength from God.
God answers.
Samson pushes against the pillars, and the temple collapses. It is a dramatic ending, but the deeper lesson is not about physical power. It is about restored relationship.
God’s strength is not limited by our past failures. When we turn back to Him sincerely, He hears. Samson’s life shows both the danger of pride and the hope of repentance.
The image of Samson straining against the pillars reminds us that our greatest strength is not in ourselves. It is in surrender to God.
Even when we have fallen, even when consequences remain, God’s mercy is still available. Strength restored through surrender is far greater than strength fueled by pride.
Why is Samson’s prayer important in this story?
How does pride sometimes weaken us spiritually?
Have you ever experienced God’s help after admitting your weakness?
What does surrender look like in your life right now?
Today's Free Printable
Judges 16:23–30 – Samson with the Philistines Devotional Drawing Page
How to use this printable
How to Use This Printable as Part of a Devotional
This page is designed to fit naturally into personal, family, or group devotional time.
Rather than simply reading the passage, this approach invites you to slow down and engage
with Scripture visually and reflectively.
1. Begin With Stillness
Before reading, take a quiet moment. You may wish to sit in silence for 30–60 seconds,
pray briefly for understanding, or ask God to help you notice something meaningful.
Devotional drawing works best when unhurried.
2. Read the Scripture Slowly
Read the passage listed at the top of the page. If possible, read it once silently, then
read it again aloud. Pause between readings.
- Notice words or phrases that stand out
- Pay attention to emotions in the scene
- Watch for actions, reactions, or surprises
3. Observe the Starter Image
Look carefully at the simple illustration on the page. It captures only part of the moment.
Consider what might be happening just outside the frame and what details the passage includes
that are not shown.
4. Draw as Reflection
Begin drawing the rest of the scene. As you draw, let it become part of your meditation on the
Scripture. There is no correct interpretation—the act of drawing helps you linger with the text.
- Draw the environment or setting
- Add other people in the story
- Show movement or stillness
- Use light, distance, or atmosphere to express meaning
5. Pause and Reflect
When you finish drawing, take another moment to reflect. You may find it helpful to ask:
- What did I notice that I might have missed otherwise?
- How does this scene reveal God’s character?
- What does this moment teach about trust, obedience, fear, or faith?
- How might this apply to my life today?
You can journal, pray, discuss, or sit quietly.
6. Close With Prayer
End your devotional by responding in prayer. You might thank God for what you noticed, ask for
strength related to the passage, or reflect on how the scene connects to your current season.
Using This in Different Devotional Settings
Personal Quiet Time
Use one page alongside your daily Scripture reading and return to it later in the day.
Family Devotions
Read together, draw separately, then share what each person noticed (no correcting—everyone sees it differently).
Small Groups or Church
Allow quiet drawing time, then invite voluntary sharing and discussion.
A Gentle Reminder
This is not about artistic skill. It is about slowing down, paying attention, and creating space
for Scripture to settle more deeply. Even simple drawings can lead to meaningful insight.
Color This Printable Online
Launch the interactive coloring studio to draw, erase, undo, and export your artwork as PNG.