Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. Romans 13:1-2

Honour’s Reward

Eli answered “Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of Him.”

Samuel 1:17

Hannah was grieved and suffered much agony due to the disappointment of barrenness in her life. One day she was pouring out her bitterness to God, weeping in anguish and pleading with Him to hear her cry for a child. As she continued to pray, Eli, the high priest, watched her from afar and thought she was drunk. So Eli said harshly to her, “How long will you be drunk? Put your wine away from you.’’ 1 Samuel 1:14

The attitude of Hannah towards an insensitive priest was one of great humility and reverence. Even though the priest had misjudged her, Hannah was not provoked to anger in being mistreated or misjudged, but answered the man of God with lowliness of heart and meekness, saying, “Not so, my lord, I am a woman who is deeply troubled. I have not been drinking wine or beer; I was pouring out my soul to the Lord. Do not take your servant for a wicked woman; I have been praying here out of my great anguish and grief.” 1 Samuel 15-16

As Hannah honoured Eli through her soft and gentle answer, the man of God blessed her, saying “Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of Him.”

The story goes on to say how Hannah’s prayer was answered and God blessed her with a baby boy the following year.

One of the many lessons we can learn from this story is the attitude of Hannah towards a man who was a priest and was much older than her in age. She received God’s blessing as she honoured Eli.

Today, we live in times where honour and respect is seldom given where it is due. As we celebrated Father’s Day yesterday, it might be a good time to check if we have honoured our parents, elders, and other individuals whom God has placed in positions of authority. When we honour all those whom God has commanded us to honour, we honour God and He will command a blessing.

Dear Lord,

I come to You in Jesus’ name. Help me to know the way I should go and give me insight so that I will honour every one whom You have placed in authority over me. Amen.

 

God bless you,

Theo and Manju