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You are here: Home / Daily Devotional / Beauty from Ashes (1 Samuel 1-3)

Beauty from Ashes (1 Samuel 1-3)

October 20, 2013 By Seth Leave a Comment

Because the Lord had closed Hannah’s womb, her rival kept provoking her in order to irritate her.  This went on year after year.  Whenever Hannah went up to the house of the Lord, her rival provoked her till she wept and would not eat. (1 Samuel 1:6-7)

It seems that brokenness is often a character trait of those who are going to be used by God.  Why?  Perhaps it’s because a broken spirit is willing to be dependent on Him.

When we, in our humble situation, accept that God is the only one who can bring us out of whatever pit we’re in, then we turn to Him in desperation.  We seek Him with open hands because we have nothing left to cling to.  In those moments, when we are most broken, God speaks to our hearts, and He raises us up for His glory.

Hannah was convinced that all hope was lost for giving birth to a child.  Her dreams seemed dried up, and she was broken.  In her humble state, God inclined and heard her prayer.  When she made herself utterly dependent on Him, He listened and granted her a special child, who would lead Israel toward Him.

Brokenness doesn’t guarantee that God will use you, nor does it promise that your wishes will come true.

However, from the ashes of disappointment and trust often come unspeakable beauty.

Father, help me to be broken.  Give me a realization that I stand before You with nothing but rags.  In my humility, be pleased to use me for Your purposes so that You may be exalted.

October 20, 2013 7:00 pm Seth Leave a Comment

About Seth

Seth is a pastor, author, and speaker who lives in Batesville, Indiana. He is married to Kari, and they have two daughters, Madelyn and Noelle.

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Seth is a pastor, author, and speaker who lives in Batesville, Indiana. He is married to Kari, and they have a daughter, Madelyn.

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