The book of 1 Samuel has so far introduced us to sin's effect in the marriage unit and the family. It is a reflection of the deterioration of a God-centered nation. The revelation of sin's effects will get worse, but before it does the author gives us a promise of hope.
God hears. God responds.
Looking ahead (3:1) we will see that a word from the Lord was rare in those days. Yet, outside of what her experience may tell her, Hannah makes a petition based on the character of God. Unchanging and reliable, Hannah believes that though God has been silent, He exists, hears, and has full ability to act. She humbles herself before His mighty hand, and He chooses to exalt her in her request for a son.
I've made plenty of petitions in my prayer life, but a petition based on God's character is a mature action in prayer. Many of my petitions are quick thoughts about what I think is best, but really I'm just moving my way through a mental shopping list so I don't have to feel responsible any longer. I did my part. Check it off the list. I should learn from Hannah in her remembrance of who God has faithfully shown himself to be through history, and her bold faith to request based on His character.
What a romancer is our God! He hears the words that Hannah didn't speak. (She was saying them in her heart, but not making a noise. The Priest, Eli, accused her of being drunk.) Then, according to His will for her, he opens her womb and she is given a son. The son's name is Samuel, which sounds like the Hebrew for "heard of God" (NASB Study Bible footnotes on 1:20).
Hannah is a woman of her word. She vowed to God that she would dedicate the boy to His service should God grant the request, and so she did. Samuel became a lifelong servant leader to the nation of Israel. God had in mind a man pleasing to Him, who would humble those involved in the corruption in the priesthood. From one broken woman who had nothing to offer God, He supplied in a way that would bless the whole nation of Israel. Samuel was no Savior, but He was a breath of hope for a disobedient nation.
Knowing that He hears and is able to respond, run into the arms of your dear Savior. Recount His great ways in saving you, or ask Him to show you more of His ways. He is a great Romancer, wanting of our dependent relationship with him.
© 2006 by Kendra Hinkle.
No comments:
Post a Comment