1 Samuel 2:1-10 NKJV: Hannah's Prayer
A Prayer of Thanksgiving
In 1 Samuel 2:1-10, we find a beautiful prayer of thanksgiving offered by Hannah, a devout woman of faith who had been graciously blessed by God with a son, Samuel.
The Prayer Begins
1 And Hannah prayed and said: "My heart rejoices in the Lord; The Lord has made me strong. My horn is exalted in the Lord. I smile at my enemies, Because I rejoice in Your salvation."
(Hannah's prayer, 1 Samuel 2:1, NKJV)
The Source of Strength
In this prayer, Hannah gives all the credit to God, recognizing that her strength comes from Him. She declares that her heart rejoices in the Lord, and that He has made her strong. This is a beautiful expression of humility and dependence on God.
The Enemy Defeated
Hannah also expresses her confidence in God's salvation, saying that she smiles at her enemies because she rejoices in His salvation. This is a powerful testimony to the deliverance God has brought her, not just physically but also spiritually.
The Fate of the Proud
3 Do not keep talking so proudly Or let arrogance come out of your mouth, For the Lord is the God of knowledge; And by Him actions are weighed.
(1 Samuel 2:3, NKJV)
Hannah's prayer also contains a warning to those who would oppose God's people. She reminds them that God is the God of knowledge, and that He weighs their actions. This is a sobering reminder that God is always watching, and that our actions have consequences.
The Fate of the Humble
4 The bows of the mighty men are broken, And those who stumbled are girded with strength.
(1 Samuel 2:4, NKJV)
On the other hand, Hannah's prayer also speaks of the blessing that comes to those who humble themselves before God. She says that the bows of the mighty are broken, but those who stumbled are girded with strength. This is a beautiful picture of God's justice and mercy.
A Prayer for the Nations
10 The adversaries of the Lord shall be broken in pieces; From heaven He will thunder against them. The Lord will judge the ends of the earth. He will give strength to His king, And exalt the horn of His anointed.
(1 Samuel 2:10, NKJV)
Finally, Hannah's prayer concludes with a declaration of God's sovereignty over all the earth. She says that God will judge the ends of the earth, giving strength to His king and exalting the horn of His anointed. This is a powerful expression of faith in God's ultimate triumph over all evil.
In conclusion, Hannah's prayer in 1 Samuel 2:1-10 is a beautiful expression of faith and thanksgiving. It reminds us of God's sovereignty, justice, and mercy, and encourages us to humble ourselves before Him.
