Four more times they sent for me like this, but I answered them the same way.
We did not yield to subjection to them, not for an hour, that the truth of the gospel might continue with you.
Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
yet because this widow troubles me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she will weary me.’ ”
The simple gives credence to every word, but the prudent attends to his steps.
With her enticing speech she led him astray; with her flattering lips she seduced him.
Then Delilah said to Samson, “Behold, you have deceived me. You have told me lies. Now, please tell me how you can be bound.”
So Delilah said to Samson, “Please tell me how your strength is so great and how you could be bound in order to be subdued.”
So I sent messengers to them, saying, “I am doing a great work, so I am not able to come down. Why should the work cease while I leave it and come down to you?”
Sanballat sent the same request a fifth time by his servant, but the letter was open in his hand.