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Devotional—The Struggle of Sanctification—Hannah, a Daughter of God

Hannah’s Hope and Perseverance

Imagine that God has answered your prayer for a godly husband. Not only is the man righteous, but he is also wealthy. Hannah was that woman. Yes, Elkanah, a Levite was a person of financial wealth and a man who feared and reverenced God. It is not his wealth that deserves the focus. God’s order for the family has never changed. He would never answer a woman’s prayer for a husband with a man who could not financially provide for a wife and children. “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, with whom there is no change or shifting shadow” (James 1:17).

Although God has ordained their marriage, Hannah’s life reveals suffering for two reasons, “…but Hannah had no children” (1 Samuel 1:2). Secondly, Elkanah’s decision to marry a second wife, Peninnah [to have heirs] produced chaos in their home. “So Peninnah would taunt Hannah and make fun of her because the Lord had kept her from having children” (1 Samuel 1:6 NLT).

The consequences of not waiting on God and resolving our challenges with our solutions will always produce sorrow. Hannah did not disobey God, yet, she suffered because of her husband’s lack of faith in God.

The question of “Why did God tolerate polygamy in the Old Testament?” has many believers perplexed. “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh” (Genesis 2:24). The marriage of one husband and one wife is God’s original plan. “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever” (Isaiah 40:8). God does not tolerate sin as we imagine. We suffer dire consequences for the disobedience of fulfilling our carnal desires including separation from God.

Marriage is a covenant between God and both spouses. When one spouse is thinking and living outside of God’s will, both will suffer. Elkanah’s decision to marry a second wife produced devastating consequences. Hannah suffered taunting from Peninnah year after year until finally she was overwhelmed by the continuous torture, “therefore, she wept and did not eat.” (Verse 7)

In exasperation, Elkanah responds, “Hannah, why do you weep? Why do you not eat? And why is your heart grieved? Am I not better to you than ten sons?” (1 Samuel 1:8).

We cannot define his response with today’s thought processes. Even so, Hannah would never disrespect her husband because of her love, honor, and reverence for God and her husband. Although his answer seems unusual, Elkanah’s words gave Hannah a glimmer of hope, “So Hannah arose after they had finished eating and drinking in Shiloh…” (1 Samuel 1:9).

In the bitterness of her soul, Hannah wept in anguish. Yet, her prayer of commitment to God is exceptional, “O Lord of Heaven’s Armies, if you will look upon my sorrow and answer my prayer and give me a son, then I will give him back to you. He will be yours for his entire lifetime, and as a sign that he has been dedicated to the Lord, his hair will never be cut” (1 Samuel 1:10 NLT).

The rest of the story demonstrates God’s love and faithfulness to those who possess faith, obedience, and commitment to God. Daughters of God dedicate yourself to obediently serving God. Mothers, pray over your children daily and raise them in the ways of the Lord. God is looking for faithful women who will cry out in times of anguish for guidance and deliverance. We must be a modern Hannah in our journey with God. Remain faithful until Jesus comes again. God, the Giver of good gifts promises to give us restoration and victory!

Prayer: God, we thank You for the special place we hold in Your heart. Give us the strength to persevere with faith and obedience. Jesus, we love you and ask this prayer in Your Holy name. Amen.

Devotional—The Struggle of Sanctification—God Protects the Righteous

Deliver me from the oppression of man, That I may keep Your precepts. Psalm 119:134

Have you ever been falsely accused? It is a terrible feeling to know that you are innocent but feel hurt and helpless. 

In the late 90s, I was working on a job in New York City commuting Monday-Friday from New Jersey. My day started at 6 am and I returned home between 6 and 7 pm. The job had excellent benefits. I decided to have a dental consult at the UMDNJ School of Dentistry. The determination was made and I was accepted as a patient. With the work being performed by senior students [under the observation of their Clinical Doctor] a procedure that took one visit to a regular Dentist would require two visits.

With adequate accrued PTO [Paid Time Off], I submitted the request and received approval. All was well until the Administrator received notice that Human Resources made a mistake in calculating my time off. Once recalculated, I exceeded my accrued hours. The following day, I received disciplinary action from the Administrator for a probationary period of six months. Yet, God would intervene. I filed a harassment grievance that included prior incidents. God had a ram in the bush—the Deputy Director was aware of my unfair treatment. He met with the Executive Director and verified the harassment was truthful. And when the investigation was complete, praise God, I won my case!

Throughout the Bible, especially in the Old Testament, we are shown despite humanity’s immediate reaction of fear, when we approach God in prayer, we can have the confidence that He always brings victory!

“And when Pharaoh drew near, the children of Israel lifted their eyes, and behold, the Egyptians marched after them. So they were very afraid, and the children of Israel cried out to the Lord.” Exodus 14:10

When the Israelites faced the Red Sea, they feared the Egyptians because of their faithlessness. Fear led to anger and they blamed Moses for their predicament. “Then they said to Moses, “Because there were no graves in Egypt, have you taken us away to die in the wilderness?” (Exodus 14:11). They were unaware that the Great God who freed them from captivity already had a victorious plan.

God’s answer: “And Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace” (Exodus 14:14).

Our enemies may appear to triumph. They may speak deceitful lies against us. But remember God is aware of our spiritual warfare. Never forget, our God is a Warrior who always wins!

Pray with conviction and faith, believing that God will resolve every situation that Satan attempts to use to destroy your character. Praise God in advance for His Divine Intervention. The Holy Spirit will guide you. Remain silent when confronted. Pray a silent prayer and turn and walk away. Never forget that God, the Father, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and Guardian angels are present in every battle we face.

Prayer: God, we thank You for being our Heavenly Father. Please help us to overcome the giants of warfare. We pray for peace despite our circumstances. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

 

Devotional—The Struggle of Sanctification—The Privilege of Boldly Approaching God

The State of Florida is known for its hot, scorching sun, never-ending rainy seasons, and powerful storms. But living on the Space Coast has brought a new definition to rain. At least three times a week, we have rain in the forecast that varies from a brief shower to torrential downpours.

Last week, we had a thunderstorm that roared until the windows in my home trembled. Although I am not afraid of thunder, fear gripped my heart. It was not because of the nonstop reverberating sound or the possibility of the windows shattering, the thought of Jesus’ Second Coming entered my mind. Was I ready? I wasn’t 100% sure that I would be one of the righteous who would receive the reward of eternal life. As I slowly opened the door to look up at the sky, only massive dark rain clouds were present.

It appears that many believers are in an ongoing dilemma concerning righteousness. Trending is the concept of once saved, always saved while others feel because of grace that we have to do nothing beyond believing in God. The knowledge of Jesus’ sacrifice allows us the opportunity to be saved, but the desire to have a relationship with Him is questionable. And most do not understand the purpose of the Holy Spirit. Studying the Bible is an option, scriptures have been redefined to indicate we are entitled to the wealth of prosperity, and finally, the belief that we can sing our way to heaven. So many false doctrines.

Despite the opposing views, the Scriptures prove whether we are faithfully serving God or not. There are many Christians who do not intentionally commit the grievous sins of sexual immorality, paganism, or hate others, yet, they do not exhibit godly fear [reverence] by living holy, nor do they strive to have a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.

“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’” John 14:6.

Righteousness by Faith: Our relationship with Christ is based on faith. “The thought that the righteousness of Christ is imputed to us, not because of any merit on our part, but as a free gift from God, is a precious thought.” Ellen White.

Definition of Imputed: We receive righteousness as a gift from Jesus Christ. “What is righteousness? … Righteousness is obedience to the law. Righteousness is right doing, and it is by our deeds that all will be judged. Righteousness is holiness, likeness to God, and God is love.” Ellen White

Our responsibility: Seek the Lord while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, And the unrighteous man his thoughts; Let him return to the Lord, And He will have mercy on him; And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon. Isaiah 55:6-7

“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.” John 15:5

The questions I asked myself during the storm each of us should reflect on “What is the status of my relationship with Jesus Christ?” And “Am I abiding in Christ?”

God knows that we are in the struggle of our lives. Every day we fight a war against spiritual darkness and an internal battle against our carnal desires. Still, God never leaves us alone. The human effort of staying close to Jesus requires obedience, faith, and trust. We boldly pray for God’s Divine Intervention. The Holy Spirit carries our prayers to Jesus, our Intercessor. Our Heavenly Father loves us. Praise God that we have Divine help 24/7.

Prayer: God, we thank You for being approachable and caring for us. We desire to have a deeper relationship with Jesus. Thank You for hearing our prayer. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Devotional–The Struggle of Sanctification—The Perfecting of Our Faith

Health care professionals, military personnel, and successful entrepreneurs have something in common—critical thinking skills. The dictionary definition of critical thinking is the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue to form a judgment. It is a combination of using your knowledge, subjective information, and observational skills [based on facts] to analyze the situation and make a sound [the best] decision.

1. Critical thinking always produces a productive outcome. 
2. Critical thinking always requires sound reason and logic. 
3. Critical thinking always excludes an emotional response.

An emotional response is normal behavior for most individuals when they experience situations that involve hardships. The truth is that no one likes suffering. Even as believers, we dread trials and tribulations. Our Heavenly Father is aware of our weaknesses, yet, He makes us know His position. “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” (James 1:2-4).

God has a definite purpose for perfecting our faith—to live with Him forever. And He uses the toughest trials to accomplish His plan to save our souls. Yes, we will shed tears and experience sadness, but we can be thankful that we serve a God who is steadfast and does not make decisions based on our emotions.

“To be successful in your Christian journey requires having a spiritual backbone.” Patricia Shirer

Recently, an increasing number of people are posting on social media about being separated from family and friends. The separation is not referring to physical relocation. The unanswered question, “Why has God allowed me to be alone?”

Pastor TD Jakes explains, “Your separation is ordained by God. Although Jesus had 12 disciples, only three, Peter, James, and John were allowed to go with him to the Mount of Transfiguration. God has selected certain people for spiritual elevation to complete His purpose. Your elevation is not based on pride. You may feel so lonely that you think that even God has left you alone because He may remain silent. You are not alone. God chooses those who will follow Him no matter the cost.”

Faith requires growth. Our relationship with Christ is based on love, faith, humility, and obedience which are strengthened from the experience of trials. “Only through faith, through knowing for ourselves God’s love, and living by faith in Christ, could we ever possibly rejoice in our trials.” The Perfecting of Our Faith, SS Lesson

Feeling lonely is a valid emotion when we are physically alone. Does God care? Yes! There are two situations when Jesus was alone and was ministered to by angels: In the wilderness, “Then the devil left Him, and behold, angels came and ministered to Him” (Matthew 4:11), and in the Garden of Gethsemane, “Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him” (Luke 22:43). We also have angels who strengthen us in our times of despair.

Spiritual critical thinking maintains our faith in Christ when experiencing trials and sorrows. Our diligent prayer life, and study of the Scriptures allow the Holy Spirit to give us the knowledge, discernment, and wisdom needed to understand the big picture—God is preparing us for eternal life. “Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven” (Matt. 5:12).

Human effort and Divine Intervention are necessary to build our faith and strength while suffering. We express gratitude for God’s love and mercies during our fiery trials through praise and worship. Sing, pray short prayers throughout your day, and imagine your life in the New Heaven and New Earth. Hallelujah! We are nearing home!

Prayer: God, we pray for strength and stronger faith while going through the hardships of life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Devotional—The Struggle of Sanctification—The Rewards From Calling On God

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing.” John 15:5

Much focus is placed on memorizing the Scriptures [head knowledge], still, a heart-to-heart, intimate and thriving relationship with Jesus Christ is our priority. God requires us to put Him first over our spouse, children, family, and friends. Every day we face numerous tasks and complex challenges that demand our time and deplete our mental strength and physical energy. When do we have the extra time needed to keep God first?

Living with daily stressors and a full schedule eventually causes us to become overwhelmed. Distractions are part of the spiritual warfare Satan uses to keep us from staying in God’s presence. Saying yes to every invitation for various activities leaves our family life in chaos. Too many responsibilities equal no time for God.

Spiritual Benefit: Jesus promised to give us inner peace and joy. “Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken” (Psalm 55:22). Yet, the human effort of giving God quality time is required to receive the promises of Divine Intervention.

“Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” Jeremiah 33:3

Go to God for help! Write a hardcopy list of your daily activities for one week. Present it to God in prayer and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the necessary changes for you (and your family) to incorporate time for worship, rest, and relaxation. We can include every aspect of our lives to God in prayer and ask for guidance.

By having little talks with Jesus throughout the day, the Holy Spirit gives us the strength to complete our necessary tasks. And we develop the habit of praying.

Whether facing a significant life event or looking for misplaced keys, pray and ask for help. Feeling fatigued in the afternoon, take a prayer break instead of a coffee break. The rewards of an up-close and personal relationship with Jesus are beyond our understanding. We can have peace and a mindset of joyful expectations.

God’s promises and rewards are for the righteous. Studying the Bible is an integral part of our worship. Knowledge and wisdom are required to maintain our faith and sustain our spiritual strength. We must know who God is and memorize His promises to have peace and joy.

In times of distress, proclaim that you belong to God! Sing praises with a loud voice! [Psalm:98:4]. Faith and trust in God change our outlook from worried to confident, stressed to relaxed. Be courageous and have confidence, if our God said it, then He will do it!

“For no matter how many promises God has made, they are ‘Yes’ in Christ. And so through him, the ‘Amen’ is spoken by us to the glory of God.” 2 Corinthians 1:20

Prayer: God, we thank You for the privilege to approach Your throne of grace. We need your help to live faithfully and righteously. Thank You for resolving our challenges, great and small. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Devotional—The Struggle of Sanctification—Jesus, the Light of the World

We can agree that the newborn lives in the womb’s darkness for 36-40 weeks. Yet, according to pediatricians, babies can see colors within the first week of life and a distance of 8-10 inches away. During the next 12 months, not only does the infant experience physical growth and development their vision also develops. At 10 months, they intentionally reach and grasp the objects they see. At this stage, babies also develop stranger danger because their visual acuity has sharpened to recognize familiar people and surroundings.

This is a happy time; babies are fascinated by their increased vision, causing them to explore their surroundings, which threatens their safekeeping. Another interesting behavior also develops–the aversion to darkness. An infant will not crawl or walk to enter a dark room. Once they are acclimated to the light, there is a profound dislike for dark environments even if they are meant for sleep.

Most of us dislike complete physical darkness, but like the baby, we are drawn to explore new things. However, our exploration may lead to interesting but deadly concepts outside of our spiritual beliefs based on the Scriptures. The acceptance of popular worldviews always leads us into a state of spiritual darkness. 

We often use the word darkness to describe a time when we experienced sorrows and hardships. Yet, darkness is the absence of light. According to the Scriptures, spiritual darkness is a result of sin. It is a devastating condition of life without Christ. The only way to transition from Darkness into the Light is to faithfully accept Jesus as our Savior. “I have come into the world as light so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness.” (John 12:46)

Since 2020, we have lived in turbulent times. The pandemic, strained race relations, persecution of Christians, the ongoing war in Ukraine, loss of employment, death of family members, increase in homelessness, etc. The vicissitudes of life have caused many believers to become despondent. They have lost their desire to remain fully committed to Christ. Without faith and trust in God, we lose the spiritual insight [given to us by the Holy Spirit], and we become blind. Unable to perceive Jesus as whom He says he is, “He said to them, ‘But whom do you say that I am?’” (Matthew 16:15), we succumb to the temptation of self-reliance.

The Dilemma: How did we get so entangled in the dark web of this world’s agenda of self-made success, busyness, and pursuing pleasures? Allowing ourselves to be persuaded by the influencers who promote the strength of self-reliance, we develop a spirit of ingratitude and impatience. We do not have time to wait on God. The pursuit of happiness changes our mindset from relying on Christ to doing things our way. Gradually, our eyes adjust to the darkness of disobedience that places us in rebellion against God.

The Consequences: The loss of spiritual insight places us in spiritual darkness. Those who once received discernment and guidance from the Holy Spirit while faithfully walking in the light are left alone to resolve every life situation that arises. The pressure from self-reliance also changes our mental and emotional states as we begin to suffer from anxiety, worries, depression, sadness, and insomnia. Without the light of Christ, we fall deeper into the abyss of darkness and cannot see our way out.

 “…The way of the transgressor is hard (Proverbs 13:15). Our carnal nature demands that we fulfill our desires. Satan customizes the distractions that lead us down the dark path of disobedience. He knows that we are not equipped to fight the darkness of spiritual warfare alone. Yes, it takes the human effort of self-control to break the vicious cycle of falling into temptation and returning to spiritual darkness. Yet, we have the power of Divine Intervention available immediately after confession and repentance of our sins. 

The Resolution: In John 8:12, Jesus states, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but have the light of life.” Jesus lovingly and patiently waits for us to surrender our hearts to Him. And immediately, we are forgiven and He lights our way to return to the Path of Righteousness.

Prayer: God, we are blind and have lost our way. We desperately need Your light and ask for forgiveness of the sin of self-reliance. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.