I prayed for this boy, and since the Lord gave me what I asked Him for, I now give the boy to the Lord. For as long as he lives he is given to the Lord: Then he bowed in worship to the Lord there. 1 Samuel 1:27-28 HCSB
The Bible teaches us that it is more blessed to give than to receive. As we give we are more like God, who has given His Son to die on the cross so our sins might be forgiven and that we can enjoy eternal life in heaven. I have had the privilege of giving away several sets of golf clubs that my father made. When he retired he began to put golf clubs together as a hobby. I inherited his clubs and many have sat in my garage for years. I have now learned how to make golf clubs and have put together my first set. Some sets have sentimental value because my father made them, but the clubs are doing no one any good sitting in my garage. It is very satisfying to be able to help someone else and to know that the clubs my father made are being put to good use.
Hannah gave up what she wanted the most – her son. She dedicated Samuel to the Lord and His service. Samuel was a gift from God, so in a way Hannah was only returning what God had given to her. These verses illustrate the need for us to give back to God. God has so richly blessed most of us. The least we can do is to give some back to God. He owns everything and does not have need of anything, but we need to learn the principle of giving.
Challenge: Do your gifts to God cost you anything? Are they gifts of sacrifice or are you presenting God with your leftovers and only a token of your appreciation for what He has done for you? God desires our best, not our leftovers. Thank Him for all of the many blessings you have experienced.