“For this child I prayed, and the Lord has granted me my petition which I asked of Him. Therefore I also have lent him to the Lord; as long as he lives he shall be lent to the Lord.” So they worshiped the Lord there. 1 Samuel 1:27-28

This boy’s name is Samuel. He became one of the most memorable judges of Israel because his mother dedicated him to the service of the Lord as a child.

Children must overcome many difficulties today. All they want is someone to love and care for them. Instead many are abused, misused, unwanted, left alone, and ignored.
Many never see one of their parents and some have no idea of the identity of a parent.

This is nothing new. Children throughout the ages have endured such treatment. My own childhood abruptly ended and disrupted by the divorce of my parents. One moment I have a family, a home, and a neighborhood of lifetime friends – the next I’m with my mom in a strange apartment.
I was twelve at the time and wandered through several years of uncertainty until I found my Lord and Savior when I was seventeen.

I remind you of what Jesus said -“Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” Matt 19:14
Do not discourage children against the Lord but bless and encourage them in the Lord.

My faith in God helped me overcome many adverse conditions in my life and determine my path for the future. The same can happen for any child dedicated and lent to the service of the Lord.