During the time of the Bible, there were not many working opportunities and career paths for women. Their biggest accomplishment in life was probably to find a sense of identity by being someone’s wife, giving birth to kids and raising them up to wonderful leaders.

Hannah loves children very much, but unfortunately she was unable to conceive. She was depressed and upset, as though she no longer has a purpose in life; like her identity was been ripped off from her.

The situation got worse because she was one of the two wives. While she was unable to give birth, the other wife had many children. Hannah was then often being looked down and laughed at, but she did not give up. She prayed to God, asking Him to give her a child. In return, she vowed to give the child back to God as a servant.

Hannah waited patiently and God finally answered her prayer after a long time. She conceived and gave birth to a baby boy named Samuel (who grew up as one of the most important leaders in the Old Testament of the Bible). As promised, Hannah gave Samuel back to God by taking him to live at the tabernacle of God when he was old enough. Because of Hannah’s obedience, God has blessed her abundantly with several children after Samuel.

Tonight at cell group we shared about our main concern in life. Very quickly it was my turn, and I hesitated awhile before I spoke.

“I think my main concern is to get a good husband.”

Pang and I exchanged glances. He smiled cheekily and said “I’d guessed it!”
I grinned back and repeat “Yeah, a good husband.”

The lesson of our sharing, from John 15:1-17, taught us to live an abundant life for God.
“If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you.” – John 15:7
“Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.” – John 15:16b

Uncle Allan reminded us that it’s definately going to be a rough journey trying to remain in God, but just as long as we hold on, whatever our concerns were, it will be given unto us.

I’ve been plagued down by BGR issue again lately. I think I fall inlove too easily and end up hurting myself and the others around me.
The story of Hannah and tonight’s sharing reassured me that God will definately provide the best for me. I will persevere and live an abundant life for God, a life of obedience in His eyes, and wait patiently for His answer.