Day 1

RIGHT PLACE, RIGHT TIME

This week we are looking at the story of Samuel. It is in sharp contrast with the other story about the supposed leaders of the nation whose wickedness threw Israel into chaos (1 Sam. 2:12-36). In Samuel we see a young man who was in the right place at the right time and in a right relationship with God so that God could use him to turn the tide of evil sweeping Israel (1 Sam. 3:9-21).

The story of Samuel would not have taken place, however, without the faithfulness of his mother, Hannah, who made a vow to her God in her desperate need. But it is one thing to make a promise; quite another to keep it. In her sorrow Hannah vowed that if she had a baby boy she would give him to God, to serve in the temple (1 Sam. 1:11). Hannah kept that vow (verses 20,24). Can you imagine how Hannah felt as she handed over her precious, only child. It is obvious that she had extraordinary faith and determination. God honoured Hannah's dedication. How proud she must have been of the son she gave to the Lord!