May 26

1 Samuel 1:17–18 (NIV)
17 Eli answered, “Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him.” 18 She said, “May your servant find favor in your eyes.” Then she went her way and ate something, and her face was no longer downcast.

This part of the story came on the heals of Eli insulting Hannah and accusing her of being drunk when she was crying out to the Lord! Did you get that? She was in emotional agony and the priest – Eli – incorrectly judged her. He scolded her in her moment of need! What was Hannah’s reply to this scolding that was completely out of line? Humility.

1 Samuel 1:16 (NIV)
16 Do not take your servant for a wicked woman; I have been praying here out of my great anguish and grief.”

She just explained herself and didn’t attack, talk back to, insult, condemn, criticize, grumble against or have any disdain in her heart for Eli. What a response! What a woman of God!

She was blessed by the priest and she soon conceived one of the greatest priest to serve in Israel. She was able to receive the blessing because she didn’t receive the offense. Did you get that? If she would have taken the rebuke of Eli (wrong as it was) to heart, she wouldn’t have received the blessing. When Eli blessed her, she got what she sought after, a child. Her response to Eli is such a wonderful portrayal of humility; “may your servant find favor in your eyes”. Are you applying this to your life?

Humility opens doors – it brings blessing – it is a key to gain the Kingdom. Pray with me today; Oh God, release a humility in me that crushes offenses.