Reflect
Today’s passage gives us a glimpse of God as provider (Jehovah Jireh). When it seemed like everything was going wrong for Israel, Eli and for Hannah, God was still in control. Through the birth of Samuel, we can see how He provided a godly priest and judge for Israel, a successor for Eli, and a son for Hannah. Hannah had reasons to feel down and suffer self-pity, for she was unable to bear children, had to share her husband with a woman who teased her, and was even misunderstood by the priest (accused of being drunk). Instead of getting more discouraged, she decided to pray honestly before God and this changed Hanna’s attitude. Earlier she was sick and unable to eat, but she returned home well and happy, for she had openly shared her burden with the Lord, had received encouragement from Eli, and had left her problem with the Lord. God, in turn, provided!
Apply
Are you discouraged? Place your concerns before God. Seek out encouragement from fellow believers. Remind yourself that He is in control. He will provide!
I must tell Jesus all of my trials;
I cannot bear these burdens alone;
In my distress He kindly will help me;
He ever loves and cares for His own.
Jerilyn Bayer
Pray
- Pray for Pastor Lyle, for his family and his ministry.
- Pray for Eric Peters, Facility Manager; Custodians, Adit Gamble, Stan Goodnough and Anne King; Maintenance, Joe Richards.
- Pray for our Church Board members: Bee Stiansen, Cam Klapstein, Darryl Sparling, Julie Leverette, Marvin Schneider, Matt Barker, Matt Chute, Mike Pedde, and Nick Mitchell.
- Pray for our office staff: Robin Radke and Naomi Voss; Bookkeeper Lynette Carlson.