“The LORD is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot. The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea, I have a goodly heritage.” Psalm 16:5-6
For the past few days, we have looked at the life of Hannah, a familiar Bible character who faced challenges but overcame them. She was a woman, with human thoughts and emotions. She was not perfect. She had weaknesses and strengths the same as we all do. She became bitter, anxious, and even refused to eat at one point.
What lessons can we learn from her story?
- Hannah had a problem. No being able to bear a child caused her great heartbreak. Perhaps there is someone reading this today who is going through a comparable situation. I pray that this study has been a blessing to you and that your faith will rise as you seek the Lord.
- Hannah persevered. In spite of being mocked and shunned by others because of her condition, she had courage and faith to look for an answer. She was a passionate woman who transformed her difficulties into challenges. What are you facing today, that seems impossible? Don’t give up, keep seeking the Lord for the answer.
- Hannah believed in prayer. She knew that the only answer to her problem would come from the Lord. In agony and distress, she found a place to pray and poured out her heart to God. Prayer changes things. Whatever you are going through, take it to the Lord in prayer, He is always listening.
- Hannah made a promise to God. She wanted a child so desperately, that she was willing to promise to dedicate him to the Lord. The Lord does not want us to make bargains with Him, but He does want us to give Him our complete devotion and obedience. Like Hannah, if we make a vow to the Lord, let us be faithful to fulfill that vow.
- Hannah praised God. It is so easy to ask God to meet a need, but how many times when that need is met, do we forget to thank God for it. What has the Lord done for you recently? Have you taken time to thank Him and give Him the praise He deserves?
- Hannah prospered. Aren’t you glad that Hannah’s story ended on a positive note? She was willing to give up the child of promise, and God blessed her with more children. His will is for us to be blessed and He has promised not to hold any good thing from those who walk uprightly.
Let’s close our week with these verses from Jeremiah 29:11-13
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.”
Prayer: Thank you, Lord Jesus, for the lessons we learn from Hannah. Help us to trust you and lean upon you as she did, and let you guide us in every aspect of our lives.
Devotion by Anne Johnston
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