Hannah's story

God has been talking to me about my lack of discipline in my spiritual life.  I usually do everything else I need to get done in the day first, then, if there is any time left (which isn't often), I spend a few minutes reading my Bible or a few moments in prayer.  Today, I got up, made coffee and a quick breakfast, checked the bank balance, then, instead of turning on the TV, I went to our den and spent dedicated time with the God of the universe.  Twenty minutes of silence followed by reading in 1 Samuel about Hannah:

From The Message translation of 1 Samuel 1:1-19:

"Penninnah had children; Hannah did not...Hannah was reduced to tears and had no appetite.  Her husband said 'Oh Hannah, why are you crying?  Why aren't you eating? And why are you so upset?'...Then she pulled herself together, slipped away quietly, and entered the sanctuary...Crushed in soul, Hannah prayed to God and cried and cried--inconsolably.  Then she made a vow: 'Oh, God of the Angel Armies, If you'll take a good hard look at my pain, If you'll quit neglecting me and go into action for me by giving me a son, I'll give him completely, unreservedly to you.  I'll set him apart for a life of holy discipline.'...Eli (the priest) answered her, 'Go in peace.  And may the God of Israel give you what you have asked of him...' And God began making the necessary arrangements in response to what she had asked."

I was deeply affected by reading this story today.  I have been given hope that the 'necessary arrangements' are being made for us and for the future of our family, even though we can't see it. 

Thanks be to God. 

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