LESSON 32 BIRTH AND DEDICATION OF SAMUEL
LESSON 32 BIRTH AND DEDICATION OF SAMUEL
Text: 1 Samuel 1:1-28; 2:1-11
The book of Judges ends on a very sad note. It shows the backslidden state of the children of Israel. “In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25). This verse captures the general situation in Israel at that time. The priest that was supposed to provide good leadership failed to do so. Rather, there was widespread corruption and evildoings.
God, in His mercy, was still looking for someone that would make the difference and bring the people back to true worship. It was at this period that Hannah came on the scene. She was a humble and prayerful woman who was married to a man named Elkanah. The husband also had a younger wife named Peninnah. Sadly, Hannah who was the first wife did not have a child while her mate had many children. Not only that, the mate thought it was right for her to make jest of Hannah. She failed to acknowledge that every good gift comes from God. No one should make jest of another person because of lack, physical disability, low intelligence quotient (IQ) or less privilege. We are to show compassion and pray for those who are hurting.
However, Hannah took her case to God in prayers. She did not mind the provocation from her mate or even Prophet Eli who misunderstood her when she was praying. She believed the Lord and God answered her prayer by giving her the only judge, prophet and priest in Israel. She did not forget to fulfil her vow by dedicating her son to God’s service.
There are important lessons for us to learn:
(a) God is awesome and has power to do all things.
(b) He fulfils all His promises.
(c) He is loving, compassionate and concerned about us.
(d) He answers prayers and desires to listen to His children when they pray.
(e) Prayer can change an impossible situation and make it possible.
(f) God always intervenes and saves His children from difficult situations.
(g) He works out all things to fulfil His plan and purpose for our lives.
What is your challenge? Take it to the Lord in prayer, He will answer you as He did for Hannah.
- BACKGROUND STORY OF THE LIFE OF SAMUEL:
1 Samuel 1:1-18; Jeremiah 33:3; 29:11-13; Matthew 21:22
Hannah was a woman with a sorrowful heart. This was because she had been married for many years without any child. She was also constantly ridiculed by her mate. She did not fight with her mate or husband. She knew just the right Person to turn to. She cried unto God and received help from Him (Psalm 121:1,2).
There are important elements in the prayer and attitude of Hannah that are lessons for believers who are in need.
(i) She showed reverence (respect) and honour to God.
(ii) She believed that God can do all things.
(iii) She manifested an uncommon humility even when she was misunderstood and falsely accused by Prophet Eli.
(iv) Her prayer was backed up with a vow.
(v) She believed that God had answered her prayer and her countenance was no more sad (1 Samuel 1:18).
Whatever may be your problem, follow the example of Hannah and cry unto God. God answered her prayers and gave her a son whom she named Samuel. The birth of Samuel marked the end of the reign of judges in the establishment of the kingdom of Israel. You must also learn how to pray, stand on the promises in the Bible and expect answers from God.
- BIRTH AND DEDICATION OF SAMUEL:
1 Samuel 1:17-28; 2:1-11; Luke 2:21,22,41-52
The birth of Samuel was the answer to the prayer of his mother, Hannah. Elkanah and Hannah, (Samuel’s parents) had been married for many years without children. People made jest of Hannah, including Elkanah’s second wife. Her husband loved and cared for her very much, but in this situation, there was nothing he could do. Hannah was not happy so she prayed to God and fasted. Did God answer her prayers? Yes, He did. Hannah became pregnant and gave birth to Samuel. His birth was the divine response to the need of His own child. This shows us that God answers prayers and nothing is too hard for Him to do. Do not suffer in silence; whatever may be your need – healing, deliverance from demonic affliction and strange occurrences in the family, success/excellent result, provision of good things of life etc. – pray in faith; God who answered Hannah and gave her Samuel will answer you also.
The birth of Samuel brought joy to the family and to Israel. To fulfil her vow, Hannah took Samuel to the house of God at Shiloh. She showed her gratitude, love and devotion to the Lord by her willingness to dedicate her son to the work of the Lord. Hannah is an example of a praying and godly mother. She regarded her son as a gracious gift from God, therefore, she prayerfully and faithfully gave him back unto Him. Samuel, on the other hand, was obedient. He did not cry or run back to his mother. He stayed with the priest in the temple and served the Lord. From his early age, Samuel was trained by the high priest Eli for his sacred duties. He eventually succeeded Eli as the high priest. He also served as a prophet and judge. He was faithful to God throughout his life.
The life of Samuel is a good example that shows us that children can serve God from a very early age. God calls boys and girls into His sacred service. You must surrender to His call by repenting of your sins and accepting Jesushttps://inspiringalways.com/youth-sts-lesson-129-jesus-calls-his-first-disciples as your personal Lord and Saviour. Serve Him all the days of your life by obeying His word and remaining faithful.
- BORN TO SERVE:
1 Samuel 1:24-28,2:11; Jeremiah 1:4-10
Samuel fulfilled God’s purpose for his life. He stood in the gap during the unstable period of the judges and the establishment of the kingdom of Israel. Just as God had a plan for Samuel, so does He for every child born into this world. God’s purpose is for you to live according to His will and fulfil His plan for your life.
The only person that can hinder God’s plan for your life is yourself. When you allow self and sin to control your life, then you cannot fulfil God’s purpose. Therefore, you must repent of all your sins. Ask for forgiveness and cleansing in the blood of Jesus. Live holy, be separated from worldly influences, surrender your time, talents and all you have to God. Serve Him faithfully, preach the love of Jesus to sinners and be focused. God will make your life beautiful. You will also be a blessing to your generation like Samuel.
QUESTIONS:
- Samuel’s parent were ______ and ______.
- (a) Why was Hannah sorrowful? ______
(b) Who did Hannah cry unto? ______
- (a) Does God still answer prayers today? ______
(b) State four lessons you learnt from Hannah’s prayer. ______
- In fulfilment of her vow, Hannah ______ to the Lord.
- (a) You are born to serve God Yes/No.
(b) In what area can you serve the Lord? ______
MEMORY VERSE: “Wherefore it came to pass, when the time was come about after Hannah had conceived, that she bare a son, and called his name Samuel, saying, Because I have asked him of the LORD” (1 Samuel 1:20).
LESSON: God has specific plan for every child.
THOUGHT: I will be faithful in serving God so that His plan will be fulfilled in my life.
ACTIVITY: Search the Scriptures and list three children that were born as a result of divine intervention.
HOMEWORK: Write in your homework book, the service you will render in God’s house.
CONGREGATIONAL SONG: GHS 169 – WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE IN JESUS
CHORUSES: (1) Have faith in God, all things are possible. (2) make me a good child like Samuel. (3) There is none holy as the Lord.
BIBLE WORD SEARCH
Find the meaning of these words. You can use your dictionary:
- Sacred 2. Faith 3. Dedicate 4. Vow 5. Devotion
