Faithful Anna
- VBS4ever
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Despite being mentioned only once in God’s Word, Anna was an admired woman of faith who prophesied about Jesus at the Temple of Jerusalem. She spent her life serving, fasting, praying and growing so close to God that she became known as a “prophetess,” proclaiming God's Word (Old Testament) and helping others understand His will.
Luke 2:36-38 – “And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; 37 And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. 38 And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” Anna's father's name, Phanuel, means "face or vision of God".
Just seven years after she married, Anna’s husband died. It was then that she decided to remain a widow and dedicate her life fully to God. In Luke Chapter 2, she is introduced as an old woman; she had spent her life watching and waiting for the coming of Jesus, the Messiah.
When Mary and Joseph brought their newborn babe to be dedicated at the temple, an elderly man named Simeon was there with Anna, and they both instantly knew by the power of the Holy Spirit that this baby was the promised Messiah. Anna broke out in praise and worship as she saw the fulfillment of God’s promise with her own two eyes. Simeon had been told by the Holy Ghost that he would not die until he had seen the Messiah.
Luke 2:25-30 - "And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. 26 And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ. 27 And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, 28 Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, 29 Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: 30 For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,"
Anna forsook the things of this world and surrendered her life to God. She actively sought Him on a daily basis. We should all aspire to be like Anna, pursuing our Maker and being obedient to His voice.
Both Simeon and Anna teach us to follow God’s plan and not our own ... His Light shines brighter than the stars!
Grow in God's Word with us this year. Check out our Bible-in-a-Year Reading Plan, as well as becoming a child of God, tips on prayer, your biblical role and more.
Share this with anyone you know who needs encouragement.