Purpose Study Bible 363: Give It to the Lord

It's time to start a new study now that we have finished the volume focusing on Ruth, Esther, Ezra, and Nehemiah. Today we are going back to 1 Samuel to examine that book for its references to the Goldmine Principles of purpose, creativity, goal setting, time management, and faith. As the book begins, we read,

And she [Hannah] made a vow, saying, “Lord Almighty, if you will only look on your servant’s misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the Lord for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head" (1 Samuel 1:11).

People often ask me what they can do to find their purpose. I respond that they should accept in faith that they have one, thank God for it even before they know what it is, and commit it to the Lord before they have it. That's exactly what Hannah did. She prayed for a son and trusted God so completely that she gave her son to Him before she even gave birth.

Hannah wasn't asking for something simply so she could possess it. She understood that what God gave her could then be given back to Him for His purposes. The same is true for your purpose and creativity. They are gifts from God, but they aren't simply for you. They are entrusted to you so you can serve Him and others with what He has given you.

What do you need to give to the Lord concerning your creative purpose before you have it? Can you thank God for it before you are clear as to what it is? Are you willing to commit yourself to go wherever God wants you to go and do what He wants you to do with whomever He chooses?

Hannah had faith that God could help her give birth, and in a sense, she acted as though it had already happened. That's the kind of faith that pleases God and prepares you to cooperate with His will. Believe that He has given you a purpose, thank Him for it before you fully understand it, and commit it to Him before you know exactly what it is. Then watch for the clarity that only God can bring.