1. How Do I Keep Getting Myself into Messes? By: Gordon Wickert

2. I. Introduction A. Samson wasted his life and brought all kinds of troubles on himself!

3. II. How do I keep getting myself into messes? A.By failing to learn from my mistakes. 1. Samson’s two big weaknesses: a. His temper. (1)Ephesians 4:26-27 "In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.

4. (2) Romans 12:19 Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay, says the Lord. (3)Proverbs 22:24-25 Do not associate with a man given to anger; Or go with a hot- tempered man, Or you will learn his ways And find a snare for yourself.

5. b. His uncontrolled lust. 2. None of us plans to be a failure. It just comes on us gradually B.By choosing the wrong friends

6. 1. II Corinthians 6:14 Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? 2.You will eventually become like the people you spend the most time with

7. a.I Corinthians 15:33 Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good morals.” 3.“Do my friends keep me from living 100% sold out to God?” 4.After being with my friends... a.Am I a more positive person?” b. Am I more on fire for God?”

8. C.By not taking God seriously. a.He was very self–centered. b.He didn’t ask God for direction. 1.Samson never did get serious with God!

9. (1) Proverbs 3:5-8 5Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. 6In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your body And refreshment to your bones.

10. III.How do I get out of the mess I’m in now? A. Repent and begin to pray 1. Judges 16:28 Then Samson called to the LORD and said, “O Lord GOD, please remember me and please strengthen me just this time, O God, that I may at once be avenged of the Philistines for my two eyes.”

11. 2. God never gave up on Samson! B. Put Jesus Christ on the “throne” of your life. 1.When you put Jesus first in your life, unbelievable changes can take place in your life! 2.God can take a person who was a total failure and use him mightily!

12. IV. Conclusion