This yearning for a baby arose from within, was fuelled by her society’s attitude and further intensified by her rival – her husband’s second wife. Ultimately, however, I believe the pressure was from God.

‘And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the Lord, and wept sore. And she vowed . . . , “O Lord of hosts, if thou wilt . . . give unto thy handmaid a man child, then I will give him to the Lord all the days of his life . . . ” ’ (1 Samuel 1:10-11)

It seems the Lord had long been waiting for this degree of commitment. Perhaps reaching this point sooner would have shaved years off her wait. Nonetheless, to her vow of consecration she added faith. Before any tangible sign of answered prayer ‘her countenance was no more sad.’ (1 Samuel 1:18) Years of anguish fostered prayer, devotion, and now, faith. A miracle was hurtling toward this planet. (1 Samuel 1:20)

That’s how God moves. Isaac, Israel, Samson, Samuel and John the Baptist were all born to women who had been barren. Barrenness forced these women to exceptional fervor in praying for conception. Little wonder that they conceived exceptional children. They were barren, but barren for a purpose.

Is your life barren for a purpose?

Taken from Turning Barrenness into Blessing

Be a blessing! May be freely copied. Just include this notice: © Grantley Morris, www.net-burst.com