Devotion:
Read 1 Samuel 1:24-28.
We learn earlier in this chapter that Hannah had suffered for years from barrenness. In her misery and pain she turned to God in prayer. She fervently prayed for a child and told God if he looked kindly on her sorrow, she would give the child back to God to use as he saw fit. Devout Israelite parents were expected to commit their firstborn son to the Lord, but in her prayer Hannah went even further. She vowed no razor would ever be used on his head. While she didn’t use the word Nazirite, she made a vow to dedicate the entire life of her anticipated son for service to the Lord when she made this Nazirite pledge.
After weaning Samuel, Hannah was faithful to her pledge and took him to the house of the Lord to be brought up by Eli the priest. As unbearably hard as this must have been, she gave her son with an attitude of worship. We read in 1 Samuel 2 Hannah’s prayer of praise to God who delivered her from pain and sorrow. Hannah demonstrated a spirit of gratitude for a gracious God.
Personal Worship Option:
Hannah’s story is one of great sacrifice and great gratitude to God. What is the biggest sacrifice you’ve made in service to God? Prayerfully consider making a greater sacrifice of your time, talents, and gifts in service to him and doing so filled with gratitude and praise for our gracious God.
No comments:
Post a Comment