Our Daily Lor Ti - Our Deepest Needs

READ: 1 Samuel 1:1-20

My heart rejoices in the Lord . . . . I smile at my enemies, because I rejoice in Your salvation. -- 1 Samuel 2:1

Try asking a 15-year-old to enjoy "family time" with his parents on a Friday night. Ask him why he isn't happy to play board games with his little sister while his friends are all going to a school ballgame.

His frustration might be similar to what childless Hannah felt when her well-meaning husband asked, "Am I not better to you than ten sons?" (1 Samuel 1:8). It appears that he didn't understand her needs, that he didn't realize she was struggling with more than her inability to have a baby. That was reason enough to be upset, but I believe there was more.

Just as a 15-year old desires to be accepted by his friends, Hannah's deep need was to have God's approval. A childless woman in her culture felt dishonored by God, because she thought He was denying her a part in fulfilling His promise of the Messiah. Hannah was willing to give up her child to God's service if only she could know that He hadn't rejected her. Her prayer was finally answered, and her heart overflowed with joy (2:1-10).

We can learn from this godly woman. Human relationships are important, but our critical need is to know that we have the approval of God. He alone can satisfy our deepest needs. — Mart De Haan

Christ's love and care cannot be spent
My anxious heart can be content;
For though the world may cease to be,
God lives and loves and cares for me. — Anon.

When we have nothing left but God, we'll find that God is enough.