Gratitude is the key to seeing God ∙

Gratitude is the key to seeing God ∙

The LORD gave me what I had, and the LORD has taken it away. Praise the name of the LORD! – Job 1:21

Job 1:14-22

 14 A messenger arrived at Job’s home with this news: “Your oxen were plowing, with the donkeys feeding beside them,

 15 when the Sabeans raided us. They stole all the animals and killed all the farmhands. I am the only one who escaped to tell you.”

 16 While he was still speaking, another messenger arrived with this news: “The fire of God has fallen from heaven and burned up your sheep and all the shepherds. I am the only one who escaped to tell you.”

 17 While he was still speaking, a third messenger arrived with this news: “Three bands of Chaldean raiders have stolen your camels and killed your servants. I am the only one who escaped to tell you.”

 18 While he was still speaking, another messenger arrived with this news: “Your sons and daughters were feasting in their oldest brother’s home.

 19 Suddenly, a powerful wind swept in from the wilderness and hit the house on all sides. The house collapsed, and all your children are dead. I am the only one who escaped to tell you.”

 20 Job stood up and tore his robe in grief. Then he shaved his head and fell to the ground to worship.

 21 He said, “I came naked from my mother’s womb, and I will be naked when I leave. The LORD gave me what I had, and the LORD has taken it away. Praise the name of the LORD!”

 22 In all of this, Job did not sin by blaming God.

When dreadful things happen, giving thanks is not natural or normal. How can we develop a habit of gratefulness in grievous times of loss? In her inspiring book, One Thousand Gifts, Ann Voskamp invites children of the King to embark on a transformative journey of daily reflection, encouraging them to recognize and cherish the manifold blessings bestowed upon them by the Father. Through her eloquent prose, Voskamp urges us to pause and contemplate each day, identifying the myriad of ways the Father’s goodness and generosity manifest in their lives.

These gifts, both monumental and minute, await recognition and appreciation. Voskamp passionately argues that it is the key to seeing God in every situation, even in our most troubling moments. It is through this lens of thankfulness that children of the King are able to see the Father’s hand at work, weaving beauty and grace into the fabric of their daily experiences.

By embracing gratitude, Voskamp asserts, we unlock the profound ability to see God’s light shining through the darkest of times, transforming our perspective and enriching our walk with the Father as we travel His chosen path for us to spiritual maturity.

Job’s life was filled with troubling moments: loss, grief, physical suffering, pain, poor advice, accusations, and self-doubt. Job 1 opens with successive announcements of immense losses. Job lost most of his material possessions and beloved and valued family members. Indeed, his heart-wrenching losses were deep and many.

But rather than focus on the negative, he expresses gratitude and thankfulness. Gratitude and thankfulness are always a choice for the children of the King.

Job’s reaction provides a model for all children of the King. He feels the loss and grieves. But then he does the unexpected. He praises and acknowledges the Father as the giver of all good things. He expresses gratitude. The “unexpected” was his norm. He had developed the habit of genuinely being grateful to the Father for all things, good and bad. He recognizes that the Father has given him everything he lost (Job 1:21).

The practice of gratitude does not erase the magnitude of pain and grief people feel in seasons of loss. As the rest of the book describes, Job questioned and grappled with his grief. However, recognizing the Father’s goodness to us, in even the smallest of ways, – prepares each child of the King to worship before our all-wise and all-powerful Father in the darkest hours of our earthly lives (Kirsten Holmberg).

Job’s response to adversity serves as a profound model for others, illustrating that gratitude and faith can transform our perspective and sustain us, no matter how daunting the trials we face. His story teaches that while pain is inevitable, it is our choice to embrace gratitude or not. Gratitude enables us to see beyond the immediate suffering to the enduring presence and love of the Father.

REFLECT & PRAY

Many of us are good at making lists. Have you ever considered making a list of things to be grateful for? Using our ever-growing gratitude list, we can express gratitude to the Father in everyday events. Practicing thankfulness is transformational. Gratitude changes attitude.

Father, You are the Giver of all good things. They come to us from You. Help me to recognize Your kindness and generosity in even the most minor ways and to trust You in seasons of loss and hardship.

INSIGHT

Why? Why? Why?

Why do we often find ourselves asking “Why?” in the midst of suffering? The truth is, we don’t always have the answers. We don’t always know why. When Job suffered, he had no idea what was going on. Sometimes, stating the obvious is worthwhile. The Book of Job had not yet been written when he lived through the events recorded. He had not read it. He lacked the perspective that we have. We now know why such sorrow came into his life and, more importantly, how the book ends: “The primary purpose of Job’s suffering, unknown to him, was that he should stand before men and angels as a trophy of the saving might of God . . .” (Klein).

When tragedy strikes, the children of the King are hurt just as much as anyone else. They grieve, but not “as others who have no hope” (1 Thessalonians 4:13). “We can worship, even in tragedy, because nothing can separate us from the Father and His love” (Stanley).

Job’s troubles are described as coming from multiple directions. The narrative presents each of the tragedies in rapid succession, giving the reader a feeling detailed well by Job’s later words, “He will not let me catch my breath, but fills me instead with bitter sorrows” (Job 9:18). Job suffers the near-complete destruction of what mattered most in life to him. Yet Job has great confidence. Distraught with grief at the calamities that decimated his family and possessions, Job turns to the Father in lament-laden worship.

In response to his losses, Job exhibits both mourning and faith. He tears his robe and shaves his head in grief, yet he falls to the ground in worship. From this place of lament, he declares, “The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD.” In doing so, Job exemplifies living by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7) (ESV Notes).

If we only focus on visible things, our perspective on life will be limited. However, there is another way to see. The writer of Hebrews described Moses as someone who persevered as if he could see the invisible (Hebrews 11:27) (Barclay).

Seeing the invisible, or supernatural sight, comes through faith in the One who is Himself invisible. This concept is a paradox. It cannot be validated through scientific experimentation.

Gratitude becomes the lens through which we see the Father, even in the darkest times. Gratitude draws each child of the King closer to Him, offering strength and hope amidst life’s trials.

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© Dr. H 2024

Friendly persuasion ∙∙

Friendly persuasion ∙∙

Because we understand our fearful responsibility to the Lord, we work hard to persuade others. – 2 Corinthians 5:11

John 16:7-11

 7 But I tell you the truth, it is best for you that I go away because if I do not, the Helper will not come. If I do go away, then I will send Him to you.

 8 And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment.

 9 The world’s sin is that it refuses to believe in me.

 10 Righteousness is available because I go to the Father, and you will see me no more.

 11 Judgment will come because the ruler of this world has already been judged.

In the 1980s, there were five significant summit meetings between U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Soviet General Secretary Mikhail Gorbachev. These meetings played a crucial role in reducing Cold War tensions and advancing nuclear disarmament efforts.

During the Moscow Summit from May 29 to June 2, 1988, President Reagan gave Gorbachev a copy of the Hollywood film “Friendly Persuasion.” Reagan suggested that Gorbachev view the film as a portrayal of the necessity and potential for finding an alternative to war in resolving differences between peoples

“Friendly Persuasion” is a 1956 American Civil War drama film produced and directed by William Wyler. The movie revolves around a Quaker family whose non-violent religious beliefs prohibit violence and war.

In the early days of the Civil War, the conflict reached the peaceful family’s home in southern Indiana in 1862. The movie delves into the dilemmas they face. Should they fight despite their commitment to nonviolence? The choice is between protecting themselves or adhering to their religious beliefs and doing nothing.

Gary Cooper portrays the head of the Quaker family. He remains true to his religious convictions. In the process, he must probe his soul. He grapples with the inner conflict between two conflicting principles: protecting his family with violence or living by his Quaker philosophy of nonviolence.

How are our points of view modified and transformed most effectively? Particularly those regarding the truth found in the Word of God.

There is no need to argue with people to try to convince them regarding the truth of the Word of God. Nor does heaping guilt and shame upon them move them to any lasting action. The Word of God is like a lion. You do not have to defend a lion. All you have to do is let the lion loose, and the lion will defend itself (Charles Spurgeon).

People are generally better persuaded by the reasons they have discovered themselves than by those that have come into their minds from others (Blaise Pascal).

Friendly persuasion is employed to allow another person to come to the best conclusion for themselves based on sound reasoning and truth. You gently lead them in the direction they really want to go as truth seekers. Gentle persuasion is empathic, recognizing that the most effective prodding often aligns with the individual’s own aspirations and goals. Rather than using force or pressure, gentle persuasion involves understanding the person’s desires and aspirations and then skillfully steering them toward those ends.

2 Timothy 2:24-26

 24 A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people.

 25 Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth.

 26 Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants.

This method respects the individual’s autonomy. It involves active listening to understand their motivations and using words and actions that resonate with their values. By doing so, the person feels supported rather than manipulated, making them more likely to embrace the direction suggested. This approach is not only more respectful but can also lead to more sustainable and fulfilling outcomes, as the individual is more likely to commit to a path they genuinely want to follow. In essence, it’s about guiding rather than pushing and supporting rather than controlling, which can make all the difference in achieving long-term success.

Each child of the King is to act as a guide and lead others into a knowledge of the truth. The truth will take care of itself. The world is divided into two types of people: the children of light and the children of darkness. Each is revealed through exposure to the Word of God. The living Word of God inserts itself into the minds and hearts of people.

Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.

REFLECT & PRAY

I would rather try to persuade a man to go along because once I have persuaded him, he will stick. If I scare him, he will stay just as long as he is scared, and then he is gone (Dwight D. Eisenhower).

Father, teach me the gentle art of friendly persuasion. You promise to gather Your sheep. It is my responsibility to voice Your call. No warfare is required.

INSIGHT

2 Corinthians 5:11 Therefore, knowing the fear of the Lord, we persuade men.

Because we know and respect what the Father has said in His Word, we are motivated to persuade people. We share His ways through our lives. We should be different. As we share the truth of the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ through our words and our conduct, in some mystical way, we exude a peculiar aroma that other people can somehow sense. The fragrance we effuse provokes diametrically opposed responses among people. For some, it can be very alluring; for others, it is quite repulsive.

In New Testament times, a shepherd had a distinctive call that his own sheep knew. When he called his sheep, they would come to him. The truth of the Word of God is like the voice of a shepherd seeking his sheep. The Father’s sheep are only revealed by their affirmative response to His call.

John 10:27-28

 27 My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me;

 28 and I give eternal life to them.

Paul used the word picture of incense to illustrate friendly persuasion. He compared the children of the King to incense, spreading the fragrance of the Lord Jesus Christ through their lives and work. We are the aroma of the Lord Jesus Christ. To other believers, we are the fragrance of life, but to unbelievers, we are the fragrance of death. The way we live and work can have a profound impact on the lost world around us, potentially bringing either life or death (Wiersbe).

2 Corinthians 2:14-16

 14 But thank God! He has made us his captives and continues to lead us along in Christ’s triumphal procession. Now, he uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere, like a sweet perfume.

 15 Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing.

 16 To those who are perishing, we are a dreadful smell of death and doom. But to those who are being saved, we are a life-giving perfume. And who is adequate for such a task as this?

John 16:8 And He [the Holy Spirit], when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin, righteousness, and judgment.

The Greek word elegcho, often translated as “convince” or “convict,” encompasses meanings such as expose, reprove, persuade, and bring to light. It involves revealing errors or proving guilt, akin to cross-examining a witness or an opponent until they acknowledge the truth of an argument.

Typically, the Holy Spirit is seen as a defense attorney for believers, but here, He acts as a prosecutor and ADA. Through friendly persuasion, the Holy Spirit reveals reality, guiding people toward objective Truth. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion but not their own truth. When the Holy Spirit speaks, His opinion is Truth! He convinces people regarding objective Truth. The Holy Spirit deals with each person individually and focuses on eternal matters of sin, righteousness, and judgment. Convincing is not condemning. A convinced person stands convicted. They often experience guilt or condemnation. It may be spontaneous. But it is not part of the process.

Can a child of the King resist and disregard the work of the Holy Spirit? We have only to search the memories in our hearts, the answer is self-evident.

Hebrews 3:12 Take care, brethren, that there not be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart . . ..

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© Dr. H 2024

Getting over stupid ∙∙  

Getting over stupid ∙∙  

To learn, you must love discipline; it is stupid to hate correction – Proverbs 12:1

Psalms 19:7-11

 7 The instructions of the LORD are perfect, reviving the soul. The decrees of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple.

 8 The commandments of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are clear, giving insight for living.

 9 Reverence for the LORD is pure, lasting forever. The laws of the LORD are true; each one is fair.

 10 They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold. They are sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb.

 11 They are a warning to your servant, a great reward for those who obey them.

Released in 1994, the film “Forrest Gump” introduces us to a simple yet extraordinary man from Alabama, with an I.Q. of 75. Despite his limitations, Forrest is guided by the insightful wisdom of his remarkable mother, who equips him to handle life’s challenges with grace.

Possessing an incredible ability to run like the wind, Forrest earns a spot on the Alabama Crimson Tide football team, where he shines as an All-American athlete. His journey continues as he enlists in the Army, finding himself in the thick of the Vietnam War. There, he forges deep friendships with Lieutenant Dan and Bubba. In a heroic display of courage, Forrest saves numerous fellow soldiers during combat, including Lieutenant Dan, which earns him the prestigious Congressional Medal of Honor. Through these adventures, Forrest’s simplicity becomes his greatest strength, leading him through an extraordinary life filled with meaningful connections and achievements.

Inspired by Bubba’s dream, Forrest ventures into the shrimping business and is soon joined by Lieutenant Dan. Together, they become quite successful and amass significant wealth, transforming their lives. In addition to his business ventures, Forrest finds solace in running and embarks on epic journeys across the American landscape, followed by a devoted group of admirers who share in his quest for meaning.

Despite his accomplishments, Forrest can’t stop thinking about his childhood sweetheart, Jenny. His heart remains tethered to her, and he welcomes her into his life with unwavering devotion, offering her the stability and care she desperately needs. They marry and have a son, but tragically, Jenny’s life is cut short, leaving Forrest with the bittersweet task of raising their child alone.

Forrest’s life philosophy is encapsulated in the words of his mother, “Stupid is as stupid does.” This phrase became embedded in American culture and carries a more profound truth: being “stupid” is not a permanent condition. One can rise above limitations and transform one’s life by embracing and living out the wisdom found in the Word of God.

Embarking on a do-it-yourself landscaping project is a significant investment of both time and money, yet the rewards can be breathtaking, yielding vibrant results that endure for years. Choosing the right plants and trees is crucial to these endeavors. Some enthusiasts find joy in visiting local nurseries and handpicking flora, while others prefer the convenience of browsing online catalogs, selecting based on enticing images and descriptions.

One particular individual opted for the latter, spotting the perfect palm tree for his garden’s ideal spot. He ordered it, eagerly anticipating its arrival. When the package came, he was immediately puzzled by the words printed on the box: “Some assembly required.” This raised his curiosity. Upon opening it, he found not a living tree but a plastic replica of the palm he’d admired online. Shocked, he couldn’t help but declare, “This is the stupidest thing I’ve ever done.”

Recognizing our missteps is the first step to overcoming them. Wisdom, as illustrated in Psalms 19, begins with acknowledging our errors. Psalms 19 eloquently opens with a depiction of the heavens, whose silent grandeur speaks volumes without words. Yet, the Father communicates through words found in the Scriptures, offering profound, life-altering wisdom.

Psalms 19:7-9 highlights six synonyms for the law, each underscoring facets of divine guidance: instructions, decrees, commands, reverence, laws, and ordinances. In Jewish tradition, these are encapsulated in the scrolls of “the Law,”“The Torah.” Over time, the term “Law” began to encompass all of God’s revelation found in the entire Scriptures. The Hebrew word Torah means “direction,” “instruction,” or “law.” Torah comes from the Hebrew root word yarah, which means to “point,” “direct,” “throw,” or “cast.” Metaphorically, a teacher yarah (aims) arrows (instruction) to hit the target and achieve specific goals in the students’ lives.

Unlike human-authored textbooks, God’s Word is perfect and timeless. Though human languages change, necessitating new translations of the Scriptures, the Word of God never needs revision or improvement (Wiersbe)

The rewards of engaging with the Father’s truth are not only immense, they are transformative. Psalms 19:7-8 describes this wisdom as reviving the soul, infusing it with life and strength. It grants wisdom to the simple, bringing joy to the heart and illuminating the mind (UBS).

Psalms 19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.

A simple person is often inexperienced, ignorant, and naïve. Lacking common sense, they are easily swayed.

Embracing the Father’s word and guidance not only elevates us but also instills a sense of security and confidence. It turns missteps into growth and insight, guiding us on a path of spiritual development.

The Father God, who created the universe with His almighty power, offers to exercise that same power on our behalf to help us speak and think in a way that honors Him. He wants to be involved in every aspect of our lives (Stanley).

REFLECT & PRAY

In the hustle and bustle of our daily routines, it is vital to pause and contemplate the wonders of the Father’s creation and His written Word.

Father, Your truth is designed to instill wisdom, knowledge, depth, and goodness in the children of the King. Encourage me to immerse myself in Your Word, unlocking its life-giving power to provide guidance and instruction for my life.

INSIGHT

Our heavenly Father provided the Scriptures to reveal His truth, nurture our growth, and correct our missteps. The Word of God serves as the Father’s owner’s manual for the human soul, offering profound guidance.

2 Timothy 3:16-17

 16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.

 17 God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.

The Scriptures serve as a guide to instruct and equip us, ensuring that every child of the King is fully prepared and capable of facing whatever challenges the Father places in their path.

The times in which we live may not improve, but we can become better ambassadors for the Father, no matter how dark and daunting the world seems. The Father continually empowers us to be effective in fulfilling His purpose for our lives.

The Father’s will, as revealed in the wisdom of the Scriptures, is benevolent rather than dictatorial. It is not forced upon us but gently persuasive, encouraging us to choose goodness because it benefits us. His path leads to a life of fullness. Just as food nourishes the body, the Word of God revives the soul. The psalmist found joy in following the Lord’s ways, recognizing them as a source of the Lord’s (Tesh and Zorn).

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© Dr. H 2024

Gentle strength ∙∙

Gentle strength ∙∙

Let your gentleness be evident to all. – Philippians 4:5

Isaiah 40:10-11

 10 Yes, the Sovereign LORD is coming in power. He will rule with a mighty arm. See, he brings his reward with him as he comes.

 11 He will feed his flock like a shepherd. He will carry the lambs in his arms, holding them close to his heart. He will gently lead those that are with young.

During World War II, as the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands intensified, Anne Frank, along with her family, sought refuge in a concealed section of her father’s office building in Amsterdam. This secret annex, hidden behind a movable bookcase, became their sanctuary from the persecution and the imminent danger they faced as Jewish people in Nazi-occupied territory.

For two years, they lived in hiding, relying on the help of a few trusted individuals for survival. However, in 1944, their hiding place was betrayed, and the Gestapo arrested them. Anne and her sister Margot were later transferred to the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, where they tragically died just weeks before the camp was liberated.

Despite the unimaginable hardships she faced, Anne documented her experiences and innermost thoughts in her diary, which was discovered after the war. This diary, known as The Diary of a Young Girl, has since become one of the most powerful and enduring testaments to the human spirit in the face of adversity. In it, Anne wrote, “In the long run, the sharpest weapon of all is a kind and gentle spirit.”

A kind and quiet spirit, as depicted in the Bible, signifies an inner disposition characterized by humility, tranquility, and unwavering trust in the Father. It encompasses traits such as gentleness, peacefulness, patience, and a soothing, sweet temperament, reflecting a heart that remains undisturbed and unruffled. This spirit epitomizes a deep connection to unwavering faith and dependence on God, enabling one to remain composed and compassionate even in the face of adversity. It is an outward expression of inner beauty.

In Isaiah 40, the Father is portrayed as a powerful yet compassionate Shepherd. This imagery captures His dual nature – He rules with a strong arm, exemplifying His immense power while also displaying tenderness and kindness. He carries His lambs close to His heart and guides them with gentle care.

Sadly, many of the children of the King are often mired in their soulish, fleshly, worldly attitudes and viewpoints. Thus, the concept of an all-powerful King characterized by gentleness and kindness seems incongruous.

REFLECT & PRAY

As we serve the King, sometimes our most significant strength reveals a heart of gentleness to others (Dave Branon).

Father, I know I can be very rigid. It is too easy to demand my rights and seek retaliation when I am hurt or wounded by others. Please develop in me the quality of gentleness.

INSIGHT

John 1:14 So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.

The King of Kings and Lord of lords became a mere, mortal human being. He experienced the worst that humanity could throw at Him: injustice, insult, rejection, and betrayal, coupled with emotional and physical abuse and so much more. He was the predicted Suffering Servant of Isaiah 53. It was as though the Suffering Servant jumped out of the Old Testament prophetic scrolls and came to life.

The Lord Jesus Christ faced it all in gentle strength. He did not retaliate when He was insulted, nor threaten revenge when He suffered (1 Peter 2:23). The natural response of people when abused or threatened is to retaliate, to try to get even, to hurt in return for being hurt, to seek revenge. Instead, the Lord Jesus Christ entrusted Himself into the Father’s hands.

The Greek word translated as “entrusted,” “trusted,” and “committed” is paradidomi. Paradidomicomes from the Greek words para, meaning “to the side of, over to,” and didomi, meaning “to give.” It conveys the idea of delivering over or handing over control, relinquishing control to another. For example, he left his case in the hands of God.

1 Peter 2:21-25

 21 For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps.

 22 He never sinned, nor ever deceived anyone.

 23 He did not retaliate when he was insulted nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly.

 24 He personally carried our sins in his body on the cross so that we can be dead to sin and live for what is right. By his wounds, you are healed.

 25 Once, you were like sheep who wandered away. But now you have turned to your Shepherd, the Guardian of your souls.

Gentleness represents the ultimate response of strength, naturally flowing from our close, intimate relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. Displaying gentleness reflects the courage of our beliefs, as it is driven and empowered by the Holy Spirit within us.

United with Christ, gentleness becomes our way of life and action. As the Father shapes us into His likeness, our gentleness becomes increasingly evident in our interactions with others. The Greek word praus, translated as “gentle,” “conveys  “consideration,” “meekness,” and “humility.” Gentleness denotes a “mild and friendly disposition,” which accommodates the weaknesses and failures of others without being overly self-important (BDAG). Gentleness is neither insistent on one’s own rights nor pushy, assertive, or demanding its own way (Grudem). It avoids rigid correctness and retaliation, remaining meek and mild in response to insults and wrongs. Gentleness is the high road most often taken by the spiritually mature.

Gentleness is not optional; it is a required expectation for every child of the King. Philippians 4:5 instructs, “Let your gentle spirit be known to all men.” Jesus Christ modeled and exemplified these qualities as the Good Shepherd, guiding us to embrace His loving care and, in turn, shepherd others.

Gentleness and kindness allow us to make a point without making an enemy (Our Daily Bread, March 8, 2019).

Matthew 11:28-30

 28 Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”

 29 “Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

 30 “For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

John 21:17 “Do you love me?” . . . “Feed my sheep.”

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© Dr. H 2024

Hannah’s Song ∙

Hannah’s Song ∙

For all the earth is the LORD’s, and he has set the world in order. – 1 Samuel 2:8

1 Samuel 2:1-10

 1 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.

 2 No one is holy like the LORD! There is no one besides you; there is no Rock

 6 The LORD gives both death and life; he brings some down to the grave but raises others up.

 7 The LORD makes some poor and others rich; he brings some down and lifts others up.

 10 Those who fight against the LORD will be shattered. He thunders against them from heaven; the LORD judges throughout the earth. He gives power to his king; he increases the strength of his anointed one.

Dogs are renowned for their loyalty and companionship, expressing gratitude and affection in unique ways despite their inability to speak. They communicate emotions through body language, such as a wagging tail, joyful panting, relaxed postures, snuggling, and licking their owner’s face.

Beyond these physical signs, dogs demonstrate thankfulness through actions like bringing a toy to their owner or shadowing them from room to room, showcasing their love and appreciation. Each dog has its distinct methods of expressing affection and gratitude, which they do with enthusiasm.

Thankfulness is a joyful and uplifting emotion. In a similar vein, the Father has provided humans with a way to express gratitude through prayer.

In 1 Samuel 2:1-10, known as the “Song of Hannah,” Hannah, the mother of Samuel, sings a song of thanksgiving and praise. She expresses her gratitude to the Father for answering her prayers by granting her a son, whom she dedicates to His service. Hannah acknowledges the Father’s power and grace, giving thanks for her blessings. Her song is a profound expression of faith and gratitude.

Hannah begins by proclaiming that the Lord is her rock, fortress, and savior, and she fears nothing with the Lord by her side. In 1 Samuel 2:3-5, she contrasts the Lord’s power and wisdom with the weakness and folly, noting how He brings down the mighty and elevates the humble.

Hannah gets very personal and declares that the Father brings joy to the barren woman, making her a joyful mother. She acknowledges that the Lord judges the earth and empowers those He chooses.

In 1 Samuel 2:9-10, Hannah concludes her song by proclaiming that the Lord protects His faithful ones while bringing judgment upon the wicked. She emphasizes that the Father’s reach is never too short to save, and He is the ultimate judge of the earth.

This passage highlights Hannah’s profound faith in God and her thankfulness for His blessings. She acknowledges that God governs the world and supports those who place their trust in Him, highlighting His unmatched power and might. Her song exemplifies the devotion and trust in God celebrated in the Bible, encouraging others to cultivate similar faith and confidence in Him.

Overall, this passage beautifully expresses faith and gratitude, with Hannah recognizing the Lord’s power and grace and giving thanks for the blessings she has received.

REFLECT & PRAY

A life without thankfulness lacks love and passion. Hope without gratitude misses the subtleties of life. Faith, when not paired with thankfulness, loses its strength and resilience. Every virtue, when separated from gratitude, is hindered and struggles on the spiritual path.

Father, thank You for being sovereign. You are gracious and all-powerful. You intervene in the space-time continuum to achieve Your purpose and will. May Your will be done on earth as it is.

INSIGHT

Hannah’s inability to have children brought deep sorrow, especially in ancient Israel, where a woman’s identity and self-worth were closely tied to bearing children. Her barrenness subjected her to relentless teasing and mockery, making her the target of harsh bullying year after year.

1 Samuel 1:6-7

 6 So Peninnah would taunt Hannah and make fun of her because the LORD had kept her from having children.

 7 Year after year, it was the same – Peninnah would taunt Hannah as they went to the Tabernacle. Each time, Hannah would be reduced to tears and would not even eat.

Throughout history, countless women have endured similar hardships and heartaches as Hannah, who serves as a model for overcoming such adversity. She remained steadfast in her faith, trusting the Father and pouring out her heart in tearful prayers. The Father heard her cries and graciously answered her prayers.

1 Samuel 2:8 The foundations of the earth belong to the LORD, and he has placed the world on them.

In ancient times, many cultures, including Israel, believed pillars supported the earth. This notion reflects the Father’s ultimate control over the world and its inhabitants. He shapes history and provides hope and comfort to those who trust in Him.

The Hebrew term matsuq is translated as “pillars.” Matsuq refers to an upright pillar, a tall, vertical, cylindrical structure. It is used for support. Hence, the earth itself. It is reasonable to translate “The LORD is the owner of the foundations on which the world sits” or, as CEV has translated the last two lines together, “You set the world on foundations, and they belong to you” (UBS).

Psalms 24:1 The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him.

“Since he created the world and maintains it, God has the power and the right to intervene in its affairs and rearrange the fortunes of men according to his sovereign will” (James E. Smith). As the designer, creator, and owner of the world, the Father has sovereignty over it. What happens on planet Earth is under His watchful care.

This comforting fact is the centerpiece of Hannah’s faith and confidence. She poured out her heart and humbly requested the Father’s intervention in her life. She was overjoyed and grateful when the Father answered her prayer and blessed her with the birth of Samuel. With a thankful heart, she sang praises to Him, acknowledging His power to rearrange the fortunes of people and His gracious provision in her life.

Hannah demonstrates in-depth knowledge and comprehension of the Father’s character, lovingkindness, and mighty works. She knows what God is like as a person.

That is the foundation of her faith and song.

“We can smile at our enemies when we remember that we serve a God who takes great delight in saving and redeeming us. When we rejoice in the Lord, and not merely in His blessings, we find a joy known nowhere else” (Stanley).

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© Dr. H 2024