And Manoah said, Now let thy words come to pass, &c.— Houbigant renders this, And Manoah said, when that shall come to pass which thou hast spoken, what shall be the method of educating the child? words plainly alluding to those in the 8th verse.
REFLECTIONS.—1. Manoah rejoices at the news, and staggers not at the promise; but, confidently depending on its fulfilment, prays for direction how to manage this child, when he should be born, agreeably to God's will; and for this purpose begs that God would send the same messenger, to give them farther information. Note; (1.) To improve God's blessings to his glory, is the prayer and labour of every gracious soul. (2.) When we have met with a refreshing visit from God, we cannot but cry, Return, O God of hosts, return. (3.) They who wish a messenger from God, a preacher of his word, to be sent among them, would do well to make it the matter of their fervent prayer.
2. God refused not his request. The same day probably, not another day, as our translation seems to make it, the angel of the covenant returns a second time to Manoah's wife, when alone, either in her business, or retired for converse with God. She entreats permission to call her husband: this granted, she runs to inform him; he gladly attends her, to wait on their celestial visitant, and there solicitously inquires about the management of the child, which, in faith, he believed should be given them. Note; (1.) They who seek God will find him to their comfort. (2.) When we are alone with God, he will manifest himself to us as he does not unto the world. (3.) They who have experienced the blessing of God's presence and love, would fain call those who are near and dear to them, to taste and see with them how good the Lord is. (4.) When we are called to approach God, our hearts should never be backward to the gracious invitation. (5.) The care of children is a great concern, and parents had need beg often of God, to direct them how to manage them so, as to bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
3. The angel repeats the same instructions. Note; (1.) It is good to have line upon line, and precept on precept. (2.) When our treacherous memories would forget, or treacherous hearts neglect God's commands, it is good to have near us a loving and careful remembrancer. (3.) They who would be holy to the Lord, must watch with jealousy against the defilement of sin.