Sometimes people in severe situations make impulsive promises to God only to forget them once the storm has passed. Hannah prayed to God for a son, but also made a vow - “then I will give him to the Lord all the days of his life” (1 Sam. 1:11). God gave her a son, and Hannah kept her vow. When the child was weaned, she took him to Shiloh and left him in the care of Eli.

“For this boy I prayed, and the Lord has given me my petition which I asked of Him. So I have also dedicated him to the Lord; as long as he lives he is dedicated to the Lord” (1 Sam. 1:27-28, NASB).

Every child is a blessing; a gift from God (Ps. 127:3). Mothers would do well to follow the example of Hannah and “dedicate” all their children to the Lord. Instead of leaving them with a religious leader, parents are commanded to raise up their own children in the discipline and instruction of the Lord (Eph. 6:4). This requires personal involvement in their spiritual training. “A child left to himself brings shame to his mother” (Prov. 29:15, NKJV).