Welcome to
Zion Bread of Life Christian Church

Sunday, 11th May 2025

Rev Daniel Poon

Today, we celebrate Mother’s Day and give thanks to all mothers — whether you are caring for your family, working hard in your job, or serving as a spiritual mother in the church. Your love, your prayers, and your faithfulness are seen and valued by God.

In Exodus 14:31, when the Israelites stood at the Red Sea with the Egyptian army behind them, God told them, “Go forward.” It was a moment that required great faith in the middle of fear. Similarly, the story of Hannah in 1 Samuel shows us a journey of deep faith. Though she faced many years of pain and disappointment, she chose to trust God.

Hannah’s faith began with openness. In her sorrow, she did not hide her pain or seek revenge. Instead, she poured out her heart to God, weeping bitterly before Him (1 Samuel 1:10). She brought her deepest hurt to God in prayer. Real faith often starts when we are willing to open our hearts and let God into our pain. Many of us carry silent burdens — but will we allow God to meet us in those hurting places?

Hannah’s faith then grew through surrender. In 1 Samuel 1:11, she prayed, “Lord Almighty, if You will give me a son, I will give him to You all the days of his life.” This was not a deal or bargain. It was a sincere act of trust. She was ready to give God the thing she longed for the most — a child. Her prayer was not only about receiving, but about giving that gift back to God even before she had it.

Finally, Hannah’s faith was completed by action. After God answered her prayer and gave her a son, she remembered her promise. She brought Samuel to the Lord, just as she had said (1 Samuel 1:27–28). Even when it was difficult, she obeyed. Her faith was not just words — it was shown through what she did.

Hannah’s life is a powerful picture of what true faith looks like. It begins with openness, grows through surrender, and is completed by obedience. This journey of faith is not just for mothers — it is for all of us. Her story helps us reflect on our own spiritual life and how we respond to God.

Just as God told the Israelites, He is saying to us today: “Go forward.” Will you take a step of faith like Hannah?