Not that God wasn’t willing. Man wasn’t listening. Then, a woman named Hannah gave her son Samuel completely to God. He was one of the greatest prophets in all Israel. And the once barren Hannah became known as one of the greatest mothers. Happy Mother’s Day!
Hannah is a godly example of motherhood. She asked God for a son and gave him back to God when he was born. She named him “Samuel” (“Heard of God”). To whom do your children belong? Are you like Hannah?
When we fear (respect, revere) our God it teaches our children more than our words. It teaches them that we are not the final authority but are all under God’s authority. It provides order to a world full of chaos and security in a time of storm.
Spiritual receptivity is seasonal. It follows the movement of God. We must work while the Spirit moves because Winter will come again when work is not effective. During harvest season work as long as it is day and pray for the Lord to send more workers. I believe we are in such a season now.
What John the Baptist said when asked about Jesus. I like the KJV for this: He must increase, but I must decrease.” Let’s pray this prayer together today: “Lord, I want less of me and more of You.”
The kingdom of God is only perceived with spiritual eyes. Those who haven’t been born again are blind to spiritual things. Only Christ can give us eyes to see and ears to hear. Born again people have been made alive spiritually.
Samson didn’t even notice when the Lord’s anointing left him. We can make this mistake when we make our worship and ministry too man-centered. Don’t presume the Lord’s presence in your work. Instead, join Him in His. Would you notice if He wasn’t present in your life or church?
How Philip invited Nathaniel to follow Christ is still one important strategy for ministry. The other is “Go and tell.” Healthy churches do both. Today is the first Sunday in WCC’s new home. Go and tell someone to come and see.
Jesus is the Logos, the Word of God incarnate. Is the Word alive in your life? Or are you just mouthing the words? Be careful. The Word became flesh but some theologians try to reduce Him to words again.
Do we make the same mistake as the women who went to Jesus’ tomb? Do we go looking where we last heard from Him? Asking Him for an encore experience? Jesus is alive and He is on the move. Ask the Spirit to show you where He is at work today.