Heaven Knocking on Our Door- DAY 19- January 30, 2020

Day Nineteen

Hannah’s Prayer

Scripture:

 Eli answered, “Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him.”  She said, “May your servant find favor in your eyes.” Then she went her way and ate something, and her face was no longer downcast. 1 Samuel 1:17-18 NIV

Thought:

One must read the whole story of Hannah, Samuel’s mother, to see the faith and thankfulness of this dear woman.  Hannah’s prayer of thanksgiving to God for His answer to her request is repeated in some forms from King David to Mary.  True faith and thankfulness are contagious, and they leave a legacy that follows us.  Her legacy is an example.  But there is frequently a test given to such a special person as Hannah before God shows up in a big way.  Her test was being unable to bear children.  Her test also included a competing wife who was able to bear several children for the husband of the two and she would tell Hannah that she was of no use, for she was barren.  Even though she was declared her husband’s favorite wife by him, depression set in, she refused to eat, and it looked like she intended to starve herself to death.  In her desperation she went to the Lord’s house where Eli the priest was sitting.  He observed her mouthing words that would not come out of her mouth.  He thought she was drunk but discovered that she was not.  It was then she told Eli what she had prayed, and the above scripture was his response.  Now look at her response.  She did not have a baby in hand when we see a change come over her.  She was not suddenly pregnant.  But she had an assurance that God had heard her prayer, and she delivered and released her concern to Him.  This is true faith. It is to receive what we hope for, even though we do not have it in hand.  (See Hebrews 11:1)

Application:

Jesus said, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.”  Matthew 7:7 (ESV)  Could Jesus be more clear with His promise in this verse?

He also said, “And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.” (Matthew 21:22)  Could He be more clear with the requirement of faith to see our prayers become reality?

When I die and face Him, I do not want to hear Him say to me, “Why didn’t you ask for more?  Why didn’t you believe more that I would answer your request?  I had so many other things I wanted to give you and show you about myself.  But you refused to take Me up on My invitation.”

Response:

Father it has been said before, but I say it again.  I believe but help me with my unbelief.  Help me to grow to the point in my faith and my prayer life that what I ask of You is what You want to give me.  I make this promise.  I will use whatever You provide to point others to the truth that You answer big prayers as well small ones.  It simply depends on our faith.  It is in Jesus name that I thank You for these words from You to Your family.

Your Child