Samson's IQ? better yet...

When we typically think about intelligence, we usually think about IQ—solving math problems, remembering facts, recognizing patterns, and maybe even taking quizzes to show off who’s the “smartest.” But what if intelligence isn’t just about how smart we are in the traditional sense? What if there are other kinds of intelligence that matter just as much?

After all, God has blessed us in more ways than one.

In a recent class at Columbia, I learned about different types of intelligence that often get overlooked in the world—mainly because our world tends to value what can be measured and quantified. But as people of faith, we know that some of the most important things in life can’t be measured on a test.

So let’s take a look at three often-overlooked forms of intelligence:

• Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

• Social Intelligence (SQ)

• Adversity Intelligence (AQ)

And let’s see how they show up—or don’t show up—in the life of Samson, the strongman of the Bible, for contrast.

Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

Emotional Intelligence is the ability to understand and manage your own emotions—and to be aware of how others are feeling, too. It’s about staying calm when things get tough, communicating clearly, and handling your emotions in healthy ways.

Samson, the biblical Hulk, had immense physical strength. But when it came to EQ, he struggled. He often acted on impulse and let his feelings control him.

One of the clearest examples is when Delilah kept asking him about the secret of his strength. Instead of setting boundaries or thinking clearly, Samson gave in emotionally and told her the truth—a decision that led to his human downfall.

His story is a reminder that strength without emotional maturity can lead to destruction. Had he practiced self-control and thought through the consequences, his story might have ended differently.

Social Intelligence (SQ)

Social Intelligence is about connecting with others, understanding social situations, and building healthy, trusting relationships. It’s not just about charm—it’s about empathy, timing, and knowing how to relate well to others.

Samson wasn’t exactly known for having strong relationships. His interactions were often self-serving or short-sighted. He didn’t communicate clearly or build trust, and many of his decisions were based on what he wanted in the moment—not on long-term understanding or respect.

In his dealings with his parents, the Philistines, and especially with Delilah, Samson often failed to show SQ. His relationships were shallow or manipulative, and that led to betrayal and broken trust. Ironically, it was only after he was physically blind that he finally saw his deeper need for connection—not just with others, but with his Father in heaven.

Adversity Intelligence (AQ)

Adversity Intelligence, or AQ, is how well we face challenges. It’s about pushing through when life is hard, staying grounded during setbacks, and bouncing back after failure.

Samson’s life was full of ups and downs. While he had great physical strength, he relied too heavily on it. And physical strength alone was never enough—as Isaiah 40:30 reminds us, "even youths will grow tired and weary."

When he was eventually captured, blinded, and chained by the Philistines, Samson found real strength again—not in his muscles, but in his surrender to God. His final act of sacrifice brought victory, but it came at a great cost. His inability to confront his personal flaws earlier led to a tragic ending. Still, by God's grace, redemption was possible.

So, What Kind of Intelligence Matters Most?

Samson clearly had physical strength—but he struggled with EQ, SQ, and AQ. His impulsive choices, poor relationships, and shallow responses to adversity led to much of his suffering. A high IQ couldn’t have saved him. But developing other forms of intelligence might have changed everything.

His story invites us to ask ourselves:

• Am I managing my emotions or letting them control me?

• Am I building strong, healthy relationships?

• How do I respond when life gets hard?

  
  

The Good News

We don’t have to be perfect, and we don’t need to have Samson’s strength. What we need is a growing awareness of how we live, love, and lead. We need wisdom—not just knowledge. We need compassion—not just strategy. And we need to trust in God—not just rely on ourselves.

Let’s not just focus on what we know, but on how we handle our emotions, our relationships, and our challenges in life. Because God isn't just measuring how much you know—but how much you love, how well you grow, and how deeply you trust.