Trials Could Mark The Way To Great Victory

“Why are you crying, Hannah?” Elkanah would ask. “Why aren’t you eating? Why be downhearted just because you have no children? You have me—isn’t that better than having ten sons?” [1 Samuel 1.8]

The obvious answer to Elkanah's question to Hannah is "no!"

Although there are exceptions, most women are psychologically wired to want to have children.

In both the statements above, I find a bit of lightheartedness in today's OYCB reading - all at the expense of a man.  Even though both of the two statements are in regard to sad or potentially sad situations, there is an element of humor to be found in both.  Poor Elkanah wasn't very bright as he asked a question to Hannah to which she had already answered with her tears!  And, furthermore, it is a good thing God hard-wired most women to want children, because otherwise, some men might find it much harder to get a wife!

However, in this story and the story of Ruth and Boaz earlier in today's OYCB reading, good arises from their respective difficult situations.  Ruth and Boaz gave birth to a son whose lineage yielded King David.  Elkanah and Hannah gave birth to Samuel.

I suppose the clear lesson from these two accounts is that difficult circumstances often (literally) give birth to, or make way for, spectacular individuals or events.  The most observant servant of God will struggle to remain mindful (and perhaps even expectant) of this in his own trials.

I really didn't see that coming!  Trials could mark the way to great victory!

Father, in my current 'uncomfortable situation' I am reminded today that You are at work and that quite possibly I could be at the threshold of something spectacular.