1 SAMUEL 1:20 – 2:11

Israel needed godly leadership from within the priesthood. A simply and godly woman wanted a son. Times like these give glimpses of the wondrous ways God works through the lives of His people.

Be careful what you pray for…

Even in the Old Testament we clearly see the concept of “living sacrifices” to God. Certainly, the payment of the vow and the offering of animals was pleasing to God. In spite of the failings in the leadership of Israel the faithful remnant served God from the heart. Through all of the offerings and festivals God receives honor and glory. It is in the lives of faithful children that the world sees His glory.

A boy is given back and a mother rejoices

Of all the teachings in scripture perhaps this one is the most poignant and difficult. Within us is a yearning for offspring so we might leave a legacy behind. The easy road is to raise a child to make his way in this world. The narrow way is to raise a child to make his way to God. When God heard the prayers of Hannah, He knew which way she would go.

Perhaps we should properly define “success”

A natural defense mechanism kicks in when children are born. Mothers and fathers are protective. When searching for the best way to defend our children against Satan and his realm, believers are admonished to raise up children in the ways of the LORD. Yet, often times all of our efforts are channeled into preparing the child to walk in the way of the world and simply cross our fingers and hope he “becomes spiritual”.

Hannah made her choice before Samuel was conceived

The fateful choice of a barren woman was rewarded by a faithful God with full awareness of the greater picture. We can never fully appreciate the workings of God through our lives. But, this much is sure: We will never see the glory of God in our own lives until we are willing to offer our lives in living sacrifice. Our legacy in our offspring is the joy found in faithfulness. Faithfulness is the true measure of success.

Discover … His Joy

Access … His Joy

Share … His Joy