Overview of: 1 SamuelToday's Reading:
1 Sam. 1:1 – 3:21
"Samuel's Birth and Calling"
Focus Verses: 1 Samuel 2:7-8
7 The LORD sends poverty and wealth; he humbles and he exalts. 8 He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; he seats them with princes and has them inherit a throne of honor. For the foundations of the earth are the LORD's; upon them he has set the world.
Insight:
Hannah was downhearted about being childless and prayed that God would bless her with a son. When her prayer was answered, she raised her voice in a song of praise. Her experience was a clear testimony of God's ability to raise up the poor and to lift up the needy. Her son, Samuel, would become the last and greatest of the Israelite judges. He functioned as a leader, priest, and prophet and he ushered in the era of Israel's kings.
Response and Action:
God is able to bring about great things and great leaders from humble, weak, and unexpected places. I must always remember that God can bless and use me. I will be careful to ask for God's blessings, be faithful to use those blessings to serve God, and be quick to praise God for them.
O God, bless me in ways that help me to serve and honor you. Remind me of your power and provision. Give me the courage to ask for the things I long for. Give me a heart that longs for your will. Teach me to walk in your ways and to give you thanks in all things. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.
New Testament for Today: 1 Peter 5:6,7
6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
In Context: 1 Peter 5:1-11
Proverb for Today: Prov. 16:22
"Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it, but folly brings punishment to fools."
Resources:
Waiting: Finding Hope When God Seems Silent
by Ben Patterson
