Here’s my sermon from 1 Samuel 1:1-20 that I preached Sunday January 12, 2025 at The Well Church in Boulder: https://boulderwell.org/media/dw3h4f9/samuel
I used AI to provide a short 5 day devotional based on my sermon. I hope it blesses you.
Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the themes from the sermon:
Day 1: Pouring Out Your Soul to God Reading: 1 Samuel 1:1-18 Devotional: Hannah's story reminds us that God welcomes our raw, honest prayers. Like Hannah, we may face situations that leave us feeling desperate and alone. Yet it's precisely in these moments that we're invited to pour out our souls to God. Today, reflect on any burdens weighing on your heart. Instead of hiding your pain or putting on a brave face, bring your true feelings before God. He isn't put off by your tears or your anguish. Rather, He longs to meet you in your vulnerability. As you pray, remember that you're speaking to a loving Father who cares deeply for you. How might your prayer life change if you approached God with this level of openness and trust?
Day 2: Remembering God's Faithfulness Reading: Psalm 77:1-20 Devotional: The psalmist begins in distress but ends by recounting God's mighty deeds. When we feel forgotten by God, it's crucial to remember His faithfulness. Think back on times when God has come through for you in the past. How has He demonstrated His love and care? Even if you're in a season of waiting or suffering, choose to trust that God remembers you. He hasn't forgotten or abandoned you. Like Hannah, your current struggle may be preparing the way for something greater than you can imagine. Today, make a list of specific ways God has been faithful to you. Let this fuel your faith and hope as you face current challenges.
Day 3: God's Heart for the Barren Reading: Isaiah 54:1-8 Devotional: God often works powerfully through those who feel barren or unfruitful. Whether you're facing literal infertility or feeling spiritually dry, know that God sees your pain. He specializes in bringing life from barrenness. Consider areas of your life where you long to see growth or fruit. Offer these to God, trusting that He can bring abundance where you see only lack. Remember that your worth isn't determined by your productivity or success. God loves you simply because you are His. How might embracing this truth change your perspective on your current circumstances?
Day 4: The Power of Persistent Prayer Reading: Luke 18:1-8 Devotional: Jesus encourages us to pray persistently, like the widow who wouldn't give up. Hannah's yearly pilgrimage and continued prayers demonstrate this kind of perseverance. Are there prayers you've given up on because they seem unanswered? Consider rekindling these prayers, not as a way to manipulate God, but as an act of ongoing trust. Remember, prayer isn't just about getting what we want; it's about aligning our hearts with God's. As you pray today, ask God to give you His perspective on your requests. Be open to how He might be working, even if it's not in the way you expected.
Day 5: God's Purposes in Our Suffering Reading: Romans 8:18-30 Devotional: Paul reminds us that our present sufferings pale in comparison to the glory that will be revealed. Like Hannah's barrenness, which led to the birth of Samuel and ultimately to King David, our struggles can serve a greater purpose. This doesn't minimize our pain, but it can give us hope. Reflect on a current difficulty you're facing. How might God be using this to shape you or to impact others? Ask God for the strength to endure, knowing that He is working all things for good. Consider how you can be a light to others even in your struggles, trusting that God can use your story to encourage and inspire faith in those around you.