What can we learn from Elkanah's actions about prioritizing worship in our lives? Setting the Scene 1 Samuel 1:4: “Whenever Elkanah offered his sacrifice, he would give portions to his wife Peninnah and to all her sons and daughters.” • The day is the annual pilgrimage to Shiloh (v. 3). • Elkanah obeys God’s command to appear before Him (cf. Deuteronomy 16:16). • His distributing meat affirms that worship engages the whole family. Observations on Elkanah’s Priorities • Consistency — Elkanah “went up year after year” (1 Samuel 1:3). Worship was a fixed appointment, not a negotiable option. • Sacrifice — He brought offerings, recognizing worship costs something (Exodus 23:15). • Family Inclusion — He involved every household member, sharing portions with each (v. 4). • Generosity — His giving flowed from worship; he blessed others while honoring God (Proverbs 3:9). Lessons for Our Lives • Make corporate worship non-negotiable. – Hebrews 10:25 urges, “Let us not neglect meeting together.” – Psalm 122:1 shows the joy tied to gathering. • Bring a tangible offering, whether resources, service, or praise. – 2 Corinthians 9:7 reminds that “God loves a cheerful giver.” – Romans 12:1 calls us to present our bodies “as a living sacrifice.” • Lead the household spiritually. – Joshua 24:15: “As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” – Parents set tone; children learn priorities by observation. • Let worship overflow into generosity toward people. – Acts 20:35: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” – Elkanah’s portions picture practical love following spiritual devotion. Connecting Scriptures That Reinforce the Pattern • Matthew 6:33 — “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.” • Mark 12:30 — “Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” • Colossians 3:17 — “Whatever you do…do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Practical Steps to Imitate Elkanah • Schedule weekly worship first, and fit other plans around it. • Prepare beforehand—set aside offering, pray, and anticipate meeting God. • Involve family or friends: discuss the passage, sing together, serve together. • Share what God has provided: hospitality after church, supporting missions, caring for those in need. Encouragement to Continue Elkanah’s simple, steady commitment paved the way for Samuel’s birth and ministry. Our faithful prioritizing of worship positions us—and the next generation—to experience God’s greater purposes. |
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