Read Ahead: 1 Samuel 1:1-18

I will give him to the Lord all the days of his life. 1 Samuel 1:11

Samuel grew up knowing he was born for a unique purpose.

His birth itself had been an answer to his mother's impassioned prayers. She prayed that if God would give her a child, she would dedicate him to God. It wasn't as though Samuel had no choice in how he lived, but he wisely chose to follow the path that God set out for him. He never had to worry about an identity crisis. He lived his entire life secure in the knowledge that God had created him for a purpose.

You, too, can be sure that your life has great meaning. God created you intentionally--not accidentally--and he has a purpose for you. You're probably unaware, in fact, of just how many prayers God has heard with your name attached to them. Long before you were born, godly ancestors may have been praying that their children and grandchildren would trust and follow God. Even if your parents aren't Christians, you may have no idea how many times others have prayed specifically for you.

So don't ever think your life is insignificant. God has had his hand on you from the very beginning. You matter a great deal to him, and he still has much that he wants to do through your life.

Take time today to celebrate your uniqueness. Thank him for the faithful people who have prayed for you over the years, and praise him for answering those prayers.

What kinds of big prayers do you regularly pray for yourself and for others you love?

Read Up: Psalm 139:13-16, Jeremiah 1:4-9

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