Today I read Samuel 2, in which Hannah’s prayer tells of God’s goodness and might, the sons of Eli are committing wickedness and God’s prophecy of doom to Eli’s line. Today I considered the trust Hannah placed in God protecting her child and loosing blessings we do not appreciate.
Hannah’s Song of Praise
A prayer and a praise for God even as her son is left behind (1 Samuel 2:1-11). Hannah’s heart rejoiced for God and her deliverance. She states how God has the power to change things related to war, life, wealth, the ability to have children, and more. Hannah says God set the world in place, guards his faithful servants, and gives strength to the king. Elkanah and probably Hannah left for home while their son stayed with Eli to minister to the Lord. Hannah trusted God to take care of her son who would be his faithful servant.
Doom From His Sons’ Wickedness
Eli receives a prophecy of doom for his lineage because of the wickedness of his sons (1 Samuel 2:12-36). When the Israelites offered a sacrifice there was a procedure on how the priests collected part of the meat. Eli’s son’s did not follow the procedure and required raw meat from the people. They did not honor the sacrifices made to God. Eli’s sons also slept with women serving at the tent entrance. Eli rebuked his son’s but they did not change. A man of God predicted to Eli that his sons and Eli’s descendants would die young. The sign would be both of Eli’s sons dying on the same day. God would raise up a faithful priest and those of Eli’s line will bow before him for silver and bread and plead to be appointed to a priestly office. People not appreciating the blessings will later beg for that blessing.
Questions and Thoughts for Today
Hannah saw her son Samuel every year, bringing him a little coat, when she went with her family to give offerings and sacrifices to God. Hannah trusted God to protect her son during the rest of the year.
How would you feel if Samuel was your son that you only saw once a year?
Eli’s son’s behavior impacted their entire lineage. How would you have confronted your children to ensure your family did not lose the blessings given by God?