05/03/2025
BROKEN PROTOCOLS
By The Gardener
"And the child Samuel ministered before the LORD, being a child, girded with a linen ephod." (1 Samuel 2:18)
Hannah’s story is one of defying expectations and breaking human protocol in pursuit of God. In a time when a woman's prayers were often mediated through priests, Hannah bypassed her husband Elkanah and the priest Eli to pour out her heart directly to God. She refused to accept barrenness as her portion and made a bold vow that, if given a son, she would dedicate him to lifelong service in the temple. This act of desperation and faith broke societal and religious norms—but God honored it.
The breaking of protocol did not stop there. After Samuel was born, Hannah weaned him—likely around three to five years old—and then did something unheard of: she brought him to live in the temple permanently (1 Samuel 1:24-28). What mother would surrender her child at such a young age? Children at that age still need nurture and care, yet Hannah recognized that Samuel belonged to God and not to her.
In response, God broke protocol too. Samuel was not a Levite, yet he wore a linen ephod, the garment of a priest (1 Samuel 2:18). The priesthood was strictly reserved for the sons of Levi, yet Samuel, from the tribe of Ephraim, was set apart for priestly service. While Eli’s corrupt sons, Hophni and Phinehas, disrespected their roles, Samuel grew in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and men (1 Samuel 2:26).
Samuel's age was another broken protocol. God typically called prophets when they were older and more experienced, yet He chose to speak directly to Samuel as a child (1 Samuel 3:1-10). Though Eli was the high priest, God bypassed him and called the boy instead. Samuel’s childlike faith positioned him to hear from God when others could not.
This story teaches us that when we boldly break human protocol in the pursuit of God, He breaks divine protocol to bless us in extraordinary ways. Hannah’s desperation led to a miracle, and Samuel’s obedience led to his supernatural calling. If you are willing to step out in faith, regardless of what tradition or culture dictates, God will meet you with divine favor, acceleration, and purpose beyond human limitations.
Reflection Question: What protocol is God asking you to break in order to seek Him more deeply?
"Lord, give me the courage to seek You beyond human expectations. As I pursue You with boldness, break every limitation and release Your extraordinary favor in my life. Amen."
From Kigundu Ndwiga
