SUMMARY: Contrast
OVERVIEW: The chapter contrasts Hannah’s faithfulness and the wickedness of Eli’s sons.
BIG IDEA: Be selfless, not selfish.
KEY VERSE: 1 Samuel 2:1 (Hannah’s prayer)
Then Hannah prayed: “My heart rejoices in the Lord! The Lord has made me strong. Now I have an answer for my enemies; I rejoice because you rescued me.”
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
There is such a stark contrast in this chapter between Hannah’s prayer and Eli’s sons’ wicked lives. Hannah’s love and heart for me are evident. She acknowledges my power and strength and submits to me. She recognizes I create life and that I guard the steps of the faithful. She also understands I bring judgment to those who deserve it.
Eli’s sons were scoundrels. They had no heart for me or my work. They focused on themselves and did whatever it took to build their kingdoms. I disciplined them, just as I will with each person who ignores me and lives independently. Nothing deserving judgment goes unpunished, and I always reward faithfulness.
Seek me and, like Samuel, continue to grow in favor with people and with me. You are my child, and I love you and always will. But keep following me. There is so much more I want to show you and provide for you. I want to bless you and strengthen you in new and more significant ways.
NEXT STEP
Evaluate your motives for serving in a current role or project. Choose to serve selflessly, not selfishly.
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