(If you’re not able to see this entire post just click on the title above.)
“The Lord has a plan that includes you.” <>< Dona (04/15/20)
Please read I Samuel 1 through 2. If you don’t have a Bible handy just click here -> Biblegateway.com. The Biblegateway website should open for you to use. Type in the chapters you want to read and select the translation you want to read them from. Click search and the chapters should appear. Once you read the suggested chapters close the screen and you should return here.
In I Samuel 1 Hannah was a woman who had not been able to conceive. She made a vow to the Lord. If He would give her a son she would dedicate him to the Lord for all the days of his life (verse 11).
Response
Oh! Wow! Lord Hannah promised You her child.
Something to think about
Hannah gave birth to a son and named him Samuel. God had not forgotten Hannah. But His plan for Hannah had involved postponing her years of childbearing.
Something to experience
Do you know anyone who is struggling with an unresolved issue? Each of us may face times of barrenness – in our work, service or relationships. It is difficult to pray in faith when we feel empty or unproductive. But, as Hannah discovered, prayer opens the way for God to work (verses 19-20). Perhaps you could be an encouragement to someone by helping them remain steadfast in their faith and by reminding them God’s timing is perfect. Or perhaps you are the person who needs to hear that God is listening to your prayers, He will answer your prayers and His timing is perfect.
************************
In I Samuel 2:1-10 Hannah praised God for His answer to her prayer for a son.
Response
Oh! Wow! Lord Hannah remembered to thank You for everything You had done for her.
Something to think about
Hannah gave her son to Eli to raise in the temple. Hannah trusted God to take care of Samuel through Eli.
Something to experience
We too should be confident of God’s ultimate control over the events in our own lives. We too should be thankful for the ways God blesses us. By praising God as Hannah did, for all good gifts, we will be acknowledging His ultimate control over everything.
*************************
In I Samuel 2:12-36 Eli, the priest, had two sons who were also priests. The two sons were wicked (12).
Response
Oh! Wow! Lord, Eli’s sons treated your offerings with contempt (12-17).
Something to think about
Eli’s sons took advantage of their position to satisfy their lust for power, possessions and control. Their behavior undermined the integrity of the whole priesthood. Eli did little to correct or stop his sons. Any sin is wrong, but sin carried out deliberately and deceitfully is the worst kind. When we sin out of ignorance, we still deserve punishment. But when we sin intentionally, the consequences will be more severe. Don’t ignore God’s warnings about sin. God harshly judges those who lead His people astray or scorn that which is devoted to Him.
Something to experience
There are times when serious problems must be confronted, even if the process and consequences could be painful. Is there a situation in your life, family or work that you have allowed to continue even though you know it is wrong? If so, you may become as guilty as those engaged in the wrongful act. Seek God’s guidance then do all you can to make things right.
************************
Prayer