Read 1 Samuel 1:21-28; 2:26
Discover
1. What promise had Hannah made previously (see 1 Samuel 1:11 to remember from earlier this week)?
2. What actions accompanied Hannah’s words to Eli?
3. How did God honor Hannah’s commitment to give her son to the Lord (1 Samuel 2:26)?
Respond
One of the hardest things to give up is the thing we’ve longed for over a lifetime. By keeping her promise to the Lord, Hannah revealed her obedience but also her understanding of ownership versus stewardship. Ownership says, “This is mine to keep or do with as I want.” Stewardship says, “I’ve been given this to care for temporarily, knowing that the ultimate ownership belongs somewhere else.” God gave Samuel life. In response, Hannah gave her child’s life back to God.
Is there an area in your life that you’re struggling to give over to God? Especially if it’s a good thing or an answer to prayer, it can be even harder to release control. Spend a few minutes now, asking God to reveal anything you’re holding onto. Thank Him for the example of Hannah keeping a promise to give up the one thing she had prayed for, and commit to taking a next step of surrender in your own life. Seek out a friend or mentor to help you and keep you accountable.
Want to go deeper? Read about another parent in the Bible who was willing to give up a long-awaited son.