Devout souls love to see the blessings they receive through prayer because they recognize God's special love in them. When we can call our blessings "Samuel," or "asked of God," they become as precious to us as Hannah's child was to her. Peninnah had many children, but they came as ordinary gifts without prayer, while Hannah's one child was far dearer because he was the answer to her earnest prayers. How sweet was the water Samson found at the place where he prayed! Prayer adds a sweetness to all it brings.

Did we pray for our children's conversion? How much sweeter it is, when they're saved, to see our own prayers fulfilled in them! It's better to rejoice over them as the fruit of our prayers than just as our offspring. Have we asked God for a special spiritual gift? When it arrives, it's wrapped in His faithfulness and truth, making it even more valuable. Have we prayed for success in the Lord's work? How joyful it is when prosperity comes on the wings of prayer! Blessings brought into our home through prayer are true blessings, not temptations.

Even when answers to prayer are delayed, the blessings become richer for the wait. Mary found the child Jesus even more lovely after seeking Him with sorrow. What comes through prayer should be dedicated to God, just as Hannah dedicated Samuel. Gifts from heaven should return to heaven.

Prayer brings blessings, gratitude celebrates them, and devotion should consecrate them. It's an opportunity to say, "Of Your own have I given to You." Reader, does prayer invigorate you or weary you?