1 Samuel 1:9-18: Hannah's Prayer and Promise
Hannah's Desperation and Prayer
1 Samuel 1:9-11
Hannah, the wife of Elkanah, was a woman who had been troubled by her barrenness. Every year, when Elkanah's family went to Shiloh to offer sacrifices to the Lord, Hannah would weep and refuse to eat. Her rival, Peninnah, would provoke her, and Hannah would be deeply distressed.
One year, after they had eaten and drunk in Shiloh, Hannah got up and went to the temple to pray. She was weeping uncontrollably, and her lips moved silently as she prayed.
Hannah's Vow
1 Samuel 1:11
In her desperation, Hannah made a vow to God, saying, "Lord Almighty, if you will only look on your servant's misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the Lord for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head."
Hannah's prayer was not just a cry of despair, but a promise to surrender her child to God's service. She was willing to give back to God the very thing she wanted most.
Eli's Observation and Blessing
1 Samuel 1:12-14
As Hannah prayed, Eli, the priest, observed her movements and thought she was drunk. But Hannah explained her situation to Eli, and he listened attentively.
1 Samuel 1:15-18
Eli, understanding Hannah's prayer, blessed her, saying, "Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him." Hannah's faith was rewarded, and she believed that God would answer her prayer. From that day on, Hannah's countenance changed, and she went back to her family, knowing that God had heard her prayer.
Conclusion
Hannah's story teaches us about the power of prayer and surrender. Her desperation led her to cry out to God, and her willingness to surrender her desire to God's will opened the door for God's blessing. Hannah's prayer was not just a means to get what she wanted but a way to surrender her life to God's purpose.
