Day 1

PROBLEMATIC SITUATION

The first book of Samuel begins with the story of a woman in distress. Read the story of Hannah in the first chapter.

On the face of it Hannah's problem was that she desperately wanted a baby but found herself unable to conceive. In fact her situation was much more difficult. She had an unfulfilled longing which left her with a sense of failure, an antagonist who taunted her and jeered at her faith, and apparently no one in whom she could confide who would help her. Have you ever felt that way?

Marie was a young girl of about 16 who had almost decided to leave home. She had a brother, a few years younger, who was severely mentally handicapped. He gave her no privacy and made fun of her and her efforts at learning. Marie's love was strained to it's limits. She had had enough. Her situation was not at all unlike Hannah's. Fortunately she had someone she trusted to turn to for advice.

When the Psalmist was overwhelmed he cried out to God (Psalm 4:1). Peter, with the conviction gained from years of experience, told us to cast our cares upon the Lord (1 Peter 5:7).

What would be your advice to a friend who turned to you in such a situation?

Father, thank you for the history of your dealings with your people Israel. Help me to learn from them to serve you better.