How can we prioritize worship in our lives like Elkanah in 1 Samuel 1:3? Elkanah’s Simple but Stunning Example “Year after year this man went up from his city to worship and to sacrifice to the LORD of Hosts at Shiloh, where Eli’s two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, were priests to the LORD.” (1 Samuel 1:3) Why Worship Must Take First Place • God Himself commands it—“You shall have no other gods before Me.” (Exodus 20:3) • Our whole life is meant to be an offering—“Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—your spiritual service of worship.” (Romans 12:1) • Corporate worship strengthens faith—“Let us not neglect meeting together… but encourage one another.” (Hebrews 10:25) What Elkanah Teaches Us about Prioritizing Worship • Consistent rhythm: he went “year after year.” Set fixed times that cannot be bumped. • Costly commitment: travel, lodging, and sacrifices required resources. True worship costs something. • Family leadership: he brought his household. Lead loved ones toward gathered worship. • God-centered focus: he went “to the LORD of Hosts,” not for social duty. Guard motives. Practical Moves for Today 1. Calendar firstfruits – Block weekly worship before filling the schedule. – Mark special seasons (Advent, Easter) just as Elkanah marked annual feasts. 2. Prepare on Saturday – Finish chores early, lay out clothes, go to bed on time. – A rested body frees the heart to focus on God (Exodus 31:15). 3. Travel together – Bring spouse, children, roommates, friends. Shared journeys deepen devotion (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). 4. Offer tangible sacrifices – Give financially, volunteer, sing wholeheartedly—“Enter His courts with praise.” (Psalm 100:4) 5. Keep worship central all week – Start mornings with Scripture and song (Psalm 92:1-2). – Let “the word of Christ dwell in you richly” as you work and drive (Colossians 3:16). 6. Guard the heart – Reject distractions, phones, and lingering worries when gathered (Psalm 95:6-7). – Seek “spirit and truth” worship (John 4:23-24). Encouragements When It Gets Hard • Opposition or inconvenience? Elkanah still traveled despite corrupt priests (Hophni and Phinehas). God honors persistence. • Dry seasons? Keep showing up; disciplines often precede delight. • Busy family life? Leading children to consistent worship shapes their future more than any extracurricular. Expected Blessings • Deeper knowledge of God’s character and promises (Psalm 27:4). • Strengthened family bonds around eternal truth (Joshua 24:15). • Joy that overflows into everyday obedience (Nehemiah 8:10). Prioritize worship like Elkanah, and year after year you will see the Lord of Hosts honor that choice with His presence and peace. |
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