The Heart of HannahHannah came to God with a desperate desire...it was God-given and natural. Hannah wanted to be a mother. Hannah reminds me of Mary (or is it the other way around?). Hannah's surrender was simple, singular, and sincere. Her obedience was opulent...the answer to her God-given desire was given back to God. The impact was/is immeasurable...the heart of Mary, the heart of Hannah.Rob ...  Read More

Who doesn't love a good story? Parables were relatable lessons that Jesus shared with His followers and anyone who would listen. Luke 15 is a perennial favorite. A lost sheep and lost coin, everyone could identify with these in Jesus' day. Of course, everyone is fascinated by wealthy families. In this case, though, they were horrified by the action of the younger son, the total disregard for decor...  Read More

One of the favorite childhood Bible stories remains a powerful source of hope and determination. Giants are no threat to God, so they are no threat to us...for, we are His. In a day of mounting opposition to what is true and right, and, therefore, outright condemnation of those who embrace Truth, David's strong words followed by faith-in-action, are very relevant.David said to the Philistine, “You...  Read More

It may be cliché, but the heart of the matter is truly a matter of the heart. It did not take the humble Saul very long to become proud. It was not long before he was performing the duties of the priestly judge, Samuel, making himself the law of the Lord, and erecting a monument to himself (1 Samuel 15:12). The proud heart is hard and deadly. God's heart was sad! But, God had a plan, and it includ...  Read More

Seek the mind of Christ. Listen.Saul teaches us a valuable lesson of the danger of getting ahead of God. When we take things into our own hands, as he did (1 Samuel 13:5-14), we assume God's place and purpose. The end of that assumption (and presumption) is disaster. As we were challenged in today's prayer journey, let's make time to listen (which includes waiting on Him)...then take action based ...  Read More

Can one get too much on/of prayer? Never! This morning our Old and New Testament readings ended with prayer and the commitment to pray.Said Samuel: “As for me, I vow that I will not sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you. I will teach you the good and right way. Above all, fear the Lord and worship him faithfully with all your heart; consider the great things he has done for you." (1 Samu...  Read More