Scripture Reading: 1 Samuel 1:11
And she vowed a vow, and said, O LORD of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head.

Reflections: In spite of her many prayers, Hannah remained barren. Her situation was compounded by the adverse social atmosphere she had to endure at home. As she left home for the yearly pilgrimage to the temple, she was therefore gripped with sadness at her plight. While in the temple, she was moved to pray as usual, bringing her request to God for a child. This time around the content of her request changed. She found herself asking God (through a vow) for a child who will serve explicitly the purpose of God in a fast declining priesthood regime. This new line of prayer engaged divine attention. Immediately, her womb was opened and in a year’s time, she embraced her first born son, Samuel who became an outstanding Spirit filled and anointed prophet in Israel. Like Hannah, you can engage divine attention by sincerely linking your personal prayer request to also address a need in the kingdom. The key issue is to be sincere. Remember God cannot be mocked. Ask for your ‘Samuel’ now.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help me so that when the needs of my life are met, I will offer them up to be used to also advance your Kingdom. May you meet all my needs in Jesus’ name.

Confession: My needs when met will also be used to meet a kingdom need!