1 Sam. 1-3
Peninnah had a false heart. When they went up as a family to worship the LORD, she would torment Hannah because Peninnah had children and Hannah did not. There is no worship in that behavior. But when Hannah finally made her vow to the LORD, she walked away in faith, knowing in her heart that her request had been fulfilled (she was at peace). The hardship and suffering that Hannah endured was for God’s glory and because she was part of His plan. I think it would do me well, when things aren’t going the way I desire or I am not getting what I want, to consider what God might be planning to do in and through me. Instead of a “why me” attitude, I need an “I am yours, use me as you will” attitude.
Luke 17:20-37
Here is another admonishment from Jesus for us to be ready. What does that mean? I think it is about your heart’s focus. What happens if Jesus returns when we are in a period where our heart is seeking other things (because it happens to us all)? I don’t know. But I do know that I would prefer to be found seeking God and His Kingdom when His Kingdome comes.