Exalted by God

If you humble yourself before God, you will then be exalted by God.

“The LORD puts to death and makes alive; He brings down to Sheol and brings up. The LORD makes poor and rich; He humbles, He also exalts.”—1 Samuel 2:6–7 NASB

Hannah was distressed. Although desperate to have children, she was barren. Why, she wondered, had the Lord “closed her womb” (1:6)?

When she came to Shiloh with her family, Hannah “would not eat” (1:7). She prayed “and wept bitterly” (1:10), vowing that if God gave her a son, she would dedicate him to the Lord. God answered that prayer, and she conceived and gave birth to a son whom she named Samuel (1:20).

When Samuel was a young child, Hannah fulfilled her promise by bringing him to the house of the Lord. Hannah then prayed a prayer that was filled with insight. Beginning with praise and humility, she exulted in the Lord. She knew that there was “no one besides You, nor is there any rock like our God” (2:2).

Through her struggles, Hannah understood that God is the source of life and all blessings. He enabled people to be poor or rich. He humbles, but “also exalts” (2:7). She had felt hopeless, but after she cried to the Lord, her life turned around.

Today, remember that God’s promises are true for you too. If Hannah could speak to you, she would remind you that nothing is impossible with God. No situation is too difficult!

Turn to God for the needs you face and seek Him in fervent prayer. Keep believing. Stay faithful. Continue to seek Him. He will exalt His people!

Reflection Question: What specific needs are you presenting to the Lord today in faith?