‘Do not keep talking so proudly or let your mouth speak such arrogance, for the LORD is a God who knows, and by him deeds are weighed.’ (v3) 1 Samuel 2:1–10
Nowadays, we are bombarded with words across a variety of platforms. It’s increasingly difficult to hear the Word of God. Not only is God’s Word drowned out in the clamour, but we easily become influenced by these many voices.
God’s command is to love God and neighbour (Mark 12:30–31). All of our decisions and actions are to pass through this critical filter to inform us how to live, as we choose God’s way as our primary purpose on earth. Every day we are being conformed into Jesus’ image (Rom. 8:29). Our life is a process of growing into Christlike maturity (Eph. 4:11–13).
Hannah knows the agony of unanswered prayer, the sound of bragging from her rival, and the loss of self-confidence, despite the favour of her husband. Her world is defined by the voices of others and she turns to God in her misery and grief with a heartfelt prayer, itself the source of further misunderstanding and criticism.
Hannah dedicates herself to God and then her prayer is answered (1 Sam. 1:11). Too often, our prayers serve our own felt needs. God acts in our lives so that we might continue our growth in understanding and service of God. It is always good to ask ourselves why we are praying for something.
Is it in my interest or God’s? In reality, God’s interest is always my best interest. Remember, we are invited by Jesus to pray for His kingdom to come on the earth.
RELATED SCRIPTURE TO CONSIDER: 1 Sam 1:1–17; Isa. 57:11–13; Acts 4:1–31; James 1:2–8.
AN ACTION TO TAKE: Our challenge is in discerning what God wants from what I want. Are you willing to explore this path of prayer?
A PRAYER TO MAKE: ‘Lord, may Your kingdom come and Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Amen.’ (Matt. 6:10)
Photo by its me pravin on Unsplash
