30/07/2016 - FULFILLING THE VOW

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Therefore I also have lent him to the Lord; as long as he lives he shall be lent to the Lord.” So they worshiped the Lord there.  1 Samuel 1.28

The vows must originate from the Lord. Then, if you accept to make a partnership with Him, never think of changing or not fulfilling what was agreed. God will not consider innocent the person who made an alliance with Him voluntarily. You are not obligated to make a vow in what the Father inspired you to do, but, at the same time, it will not be a good decision if you refuse. When He guides us, something wonderful happens. 

The story about Hannah´s vow which resulted in the birth of Samuel is preached and told throughout the world, for it is beautiful and inspiring. However, everyone must observe carefully that which they feel from God. Once they enter into an alliance with Him, they will never be able to say that they were not certain of what they were doing, especially if the Most High has already accomplished His part. Don’t let the Lord charge something from you. 

We are warned by the Most High not to be fools and propose something to Him; however, if He is the one who makes the invitation, there is no reason for us to deny it. Without a doubt, what God asks from us will result in blessing for our lives. The Most High doesn’t need anything from us, but, if He proposes us something, it is to multiply that, just like He did in Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, when Elijah spoke in His Name for the widow to make him a small cake ( 1 Kings 17:13). 

Hannah´s shame ended with the birth of Samuel, but it could have continued forever if she had not done what she promised. Many people during difficult moments made vows and were answered; however, since the enemy always comes with his temptations in a disgraceful way, some people didn’t commit to their word and tried to justify it by accusing someone else of having deceived them. 

When the Lord inspires us to do something and we agree, He puts us in His eternal plan. Thus, through the centuries, our name will be remembered as someone who did according to divine will and was rewarded because of that. Everybody who gave something to God surely received more in return. Hannah kept her word and when the baby didn’t need her anymore, she took him to the temple and gave him to the priest. 

She certainly missed her first-born, but she never went back to get him. You must never want back that which you gave to God, but simply praise Him for having made you His partner. Hannah´s act made Eli glorify the Most High and at the same time take care of the boy as a property of God. It is always good to respect what we offer to God or what we receive from God to take care of. Therefore, be responsible in what He told you to do. 

Right down the proposal made to the heavenly Father, because if you don’t honor it, you will be found lacking. You can’t play with God and mock at Him, for all that we sow we will reap (Gal 6:7). Be careful not to let some passion take over your heart and thus, make you despise the Lord or hurt Him. Be faithful! 

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares