Pain, disappointment, and seasons of waiting can either push us away from God or draw us closer to Him. Pastor Chris Teien walks through the story of Hannah in 1 Samuel 1-2 and explores how God works through seasons of waiting, prayer, and surrender to accomplish His greater purposes. Through Hannah’s faithfulness, God raised up Samuel, a prophet who would help lead Israel during a critical moment in history. This message challenges listeners to trust God with their burdens, their families, and their future. 

Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19157276

Key Points:

1. Kingdom influence begins with surrendered prayer - Hannah brought her deep pain honestly before God and trusted Him with her future. (1 Samuel 1:9-11)
2. Kingdom faith recognizes God’s ownership - Children, resources, and opportunities are gifts from God entrusted to us for His glory. (1 Samuel 1:27-28)
3. Kingdom investment requires faithful influence - Faithfulness in parenting, mentoring, and spiritual influence can impact future generations. (1 Samuel 2:18-21)
4. Kingdom trust leaves the future in God’s hands - God worked through Hannah’s obedience and Samuel’s life to shape the future of Israel. (1 Samuel 2:20-21)

Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:

Pastor Chris shares how older pastors encouraged and mentored him before planting a church and entering full-time ministry. He reflects on the importance of learning through relationships, faithful examples, and serving alongside godly leaders.

Notable Quotes:

• “Sometimes our pain can push us away from God, but Hannah allowed her pain to drive her to God.”
• “Prayer says, ‘God, I can’t do this without You.’”
• “Sometimes our children catch our faith more than they are taught our faith.”
• “God can do great things through ordinary faithfulness.”

Actionable Takeaways:

• Bring your struggles honestly before God in prayer.
• View your children and influence as opportunities to build God’s kingdom.
• Stay faithful even when you do not immediately see results.
• Invest intentionally in the next generation through prayer, example, and encouragement.

Scripture References:

• 1 Samuel 1-2 - Hannah’s prayer, Samuel’s birth, and dedication to the Lord
• Psalm 62:8 - Pouring out our hearts before God
• Philippians 4:6 - Bringing every concern to God in prayer
• Matthew 19 - God’s design for marriage
• 2 Timothy 1:5 - The faith of Timothy’s mother and grandmother
• Acts 3:24 - Samuel’s significance in God’s redemptive plan

Keywords:

Hannah, Samuel, prayer, parenting, faithfulness, kingdom influence, Christian family, surrender, discipleship, trusting God

Challenge:

Ask God this week to show you one specific way you can faithfully influence the next generation for Christ through prayer, encouragement, or spiritual example.

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Chris Teien, Pastor of Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota, shares biblical preaching and practical encouragement through the WELL Faith Sermon Audio Podcast, along with occasional guest speakers. New messages are shared every week to encourage you in your faith and help you apply God's Word to your life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church