Like yesterday, the story of Samson leaves us with many unanswered questions. He was to be dedicated to God as a Nazarite from birth: a person who vowed not to drink wine, not to have any of his hair cut and not to touch corpses. We read that God's Spirit came powerfully upon him; that he was victorious in battle; that God miraculously saved him from dying of thirst; and that his sacrificial death brought about a major victory over the Philistines. But we also read of him breaking his Nazarite vows, having dubious motives and giving in to his weakness in sexual matters. This latter has been the downfall of too many church leaders.

But like Jephthah his name appears in Hebrews 11 as a hero of faith. Like us all, Samson was a flawed human being with many weaknesses. Paul even rejoiced in his weaknesses. A weakness only becomes a sin if it is indulged. But Samson certainly sets us an example when it comes to faith. F F Bruce writes: "The narrative of Judges portrays him as one who was deeply conscious of the invisible God, and of his call to be an instrument in God's hand against the enemy of his people."

Money, sex and power are the three most prevalent causes of Christians being defeated by the evil one, especially when it comes to leaders. Sadly I have heard of, and personally witnessed, quite a number of men of God that have been taken out of the battle by their inability to overcome sexual temptation. I have heard of far fewer in the areas of money and power. How should I guard myself from sexual sin and infidelity?

1. By guarding my heart; by giving God first place; by trying to please him; by thinking godly thoughts and resisting the evil one; by obeying the Holy Spirit and not grieving him.

2. By recognizing and owning up to my vulnerability; by guarding myself from being deceived by wolves in sheep's clothing; by making myself accountable to trusted friends asking them to keep an eye on me and flagging up any relaxing of standards or compromising situations.

3. By fleeing from all sexual sin as Joseph did; from being wise in my dealings with members of the opposite sex; by resisting all forms of pornography (something which has reached epidemic proportions in recent years even amongst church leaders).

4. By not neglecting quality time with my spouse: romantic meals; acts of kindness; heart-sharing; presents and caring sexual intimacy; by loving them sacrificially, showing forbearance and the utmost respect.